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Insulin, Mass Concentration in Plasma

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of insulin, a hormone produced by your pancreas, in your blood plasma. Insulin helps regulate blood sugar levels by allowing cells to absorb glucose.

Quick summary

["Insulin helps control your blood sugar and energy levels."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12760-5
Short code
Insulin 4M p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Insulin 4M p chal SerPl-mCnc
Category
hormone
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
2.6
Ref high
24.9
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
83525
SNOMED
413618004
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test to check for conditions like diabetes, insulin resistance, or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). It can also help diagnose or monitor pancreatic disorders, such as pancreatitis or tumors, or evaluate how your body responds to insulin therapy.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a glucose-insulin study. If you’re taking insulin or diabetes medications, let your doctor know. Blood is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into your arm to collect a blood sample. The process is quick and usually painless, though you might feel a brief pinch. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What Do the Results Mean?

Results are interpreted based on your symptoms, medical history, and other lab tests. High insulin levels may suggest insulinoma (a rare tumor) or other endocrine issues, while very low levels could indicate diabetes or severe insulin deficiency. Your doctor will discuss findings with you.

Reference range

Fasting: 2.6-24.9 μIU/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Insulin Level

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results typically arrive within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Follow-up with your doctor will help clarify any findings.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
If fasting is required (e.g., for a glucose-insulin study), avoid food and liquids except water for 8–12 hours beforehand. If fasting isn’t needed, you can eat normally. Always check with your doctor first.
Is there any risk or discomfort with this test?
Most people experience minimal discomfort, like a slight pinch or bruising at the injection site. Rarely, some may feel lightheaded or dizzy if blood is drawn too quickly. If you have a hard time with needles, let your doctor know to discuss alternatives.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy