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Insulin, Plasma (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography)

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

This test measures the amount of insulin in your blood plasma, which helps assess how your body produces and uses insulin for energy.

Quick summary

["Insulin levels help diagnose or monitor diabetes and other metabolic conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12750-6
Short code
Insulin 7h p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Insulin 7h 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 healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), or if you’re being evaluated for conditions like diabetes, insulin resistance, or pancreatic issues. It may also be used to check for insulinoma, a rare tumor that causes excessive insulin production.

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 profile. If fasting isn’t required, avoid strenuous activity or eating/drinking for 2–3 hours beforehand. Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a slight pinch, but the procedure is quick. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), which separates and measures insulin molecules precisely.

What Do Results Mean?

Results are interpreted by your doctor based on your symptoms, medical history, and other test results. Abnormally low or high levels may indicate underlying health concerns that need further evaluation, such as hormone imbalances or metabolic disorders.

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

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
Low insulin levels may suggest conditions like diabetes (if insulin is insufficient), severe liver disease, or certain genetic disorders. High insulin levels could indicate insulinoma, reactive hypoglycemia, or overproduction of insulin from tumors.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your health needs. For example, people with diabetes may need periodic checks, while others may only require testing during specific evaluations (e.g., before surgery or for suspected tumors).
Can I Take Anything Before or After the Test?
Yes, follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. If fasting is required, avoid caffeine or sugary foods/drinks. After the test, you can resume normal activities, but check with your provider if you have questions about medications or activity restrictions.
  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