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Insulin, 24-Hour Urinary Excretion (Quantitative)

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

This test measures the total amount of insulin your body excretes in urine over a 24-hour period. It helps assess how much insulin your kidneys filter out and may be used to evaluate insulin production or kidney function.

Quick summary

["This test helps track urinary insulin levels over a full day to understand kidney function and insulin metabolism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
56492-2
Short code
Insulin 6M p chal SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
Insulin 6M p chal SerPl-aCnc
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 This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if they suspect conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or unusual insulin levels. It can also help monitor how well your kidneys are processing insulin or diagnose rare metabolic disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed. You’ll provide a 24-hour urine sample collected in a sterile container, starting and ending at the same time each day. Drink plenty of water to help flush out insulin naturally.

What the Test Results Mean

Results are interpreted by comparing the total urinary insulin amount to expected values for your body size and health. Abnormally high or low levels may signal issues with insulin production, kidney function, or metabolic disorders.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used in cases of suspected insulin resistance, diabetes, or kidney-related metabolic problems. It may also help diagnose conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or other endocrine disorders affecting insulin metabolism.

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

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my results?
Results are usually available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Follow-up with your healthcare provider to discuss findings.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
Moderate alcohol consumption is generally fine, but avoid excessive amounts as they may affect insulin metabolism. Check with your provider for personalized advice.
Does this test require fasting?
No fasting is required for this test. However, avoid heavy meals or medications that could influence insulin levels before sample collection.
  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