Insulin, Serum Mass Concentration
This test measures the amount of insulin in your blood serum, a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar levels.
["Insulin levels help assess how well your body uses glucose for energy and can indicate diabetes or other metabolic conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2482-8
- Short code
- Insulin Ab Ser-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Insulin Ab Ser-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 diagnose or monitor conditions like diabetes, insulin resistance, or to check for signs of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). It can also help evaluate pancreatic function or rule out other metabolic disorders.
When Might You Need This Test?
You might need this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight changes, frequent urination, extreme thirst, fatigue, or if you have a family history of diabetes. It may also be done during pregnancy, before surgeries, or as part of routine health checks.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure insulin levels. The test typically takes a few minutes, and you may feel slight discomfort but no lasting effects.
What Do Results Mean?
Results can vary based on individual health, diet, and other factors. High insulin levels may suggest insulin resistance or diabetes, while very low levels might indicate hypoglycemia or other hormonal imbalances. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
Reference range
Fasting: 2.6-24.9 μIU/mLN/A
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 often do I need this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect insulin levels?
What should I do if I have abnormal results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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