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Insulin, Plasma (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography)

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

This test measures the amount of insulin, a hormone produced by your pancreas, in your blood plasma. It helps assess how well your body is regulating blood sugar levels.

Quick summary

["Insulin levels help diagnose and monitor conditions like diabetes and insulin resistance."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12753-0
Short code
Insulin 9h p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Insulin 9h 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 or high blood sugar, such as excessive thirst, fatigue, or unexplained weight changes. It may also be used to evaluate conditions like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), hyperinsulinemia (high insulin levels), or to monitor diabetes treatment effectiveness.

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. Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.

How the Test Is Performed

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. The blood is then processed to separate plasma for analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported in micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL) or nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). Interpretation depends on clinical context, including fasting status and symptoms.

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

Plasma Insulin

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal insulin levels?
Abnormal insulin levels can result from conditions like diabetes, insulin-producing tumors, or metabolic disorders. Lifestyle factors (e.g., poor diet, obesity) or medications (e.g., certain diabetes drugs) may also affect insulin production or sensitivity.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your health needs. For diabetes management, tests may be scheduled annually or more often if you have complications or unstable blood sugar.
Can diet or exercise affect insulin test results?
Yes, fasting before the test is critical. Exercise or dietary changes shortly before testing may alter insulin levels, so follow your provider’s instructions precisely.
  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