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Insulin, mass concentration (serum/plasma)

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

This test measures the amount of insulin, a hormone produced by your pancreas, in your blood.

Quick summary

["Insulin helps regulate blood sugar levels and assesses your body’s response to glucose."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12752-2
Short code
Insulin 8h p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Insulin 8h 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 to evaluate insulin levels for conditions like diabetes, hypoglycemia, or to monitor treatment effectiveness. It can also help diagnose or manage disorders related to insulin production or function.

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 tolerance study. Bring any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.

During the Test

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it typically takes only a few minutes. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine whether your insulin levels are normal, low, or high, which can indicate underlying health issues. Your doctor will compare your results to your symptoms and other test findings to interpret them accurately.

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

Serum/Plasma Insulin

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal insulin levels?
Several factors can affect insulin levels, including genetics, certain medications (like steroids or diabetes drugs), infections, stress, or chronic conditions like diabetes or pancreatitis. Lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise, can also influence insulin production.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you during your follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
If fasting is required (e.g., for a glucose test), avoid food and liquids—except water—8–12 hours before the test. If no fasting is needed, you can eat and drink normally, but check with your provider for specific instructions.
  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