Insulin concentration in serum (pre-meal, 100 µg glucose challenge)
This test measures your insulin levels after consuming a small amount of glucose to help assess how your body responds to blood sugar.
["Helps evaluate insulin sensitivity and potential diabetes-related conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 42919-1
- Short code
- Insulin pre 100 g Glc PO SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Insulin pre 100 g Glc PO SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- glucose
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 2.6
- Ref high
- 24.9
- Fasting
- true
- 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 doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of insulin resistance, prediabetes, or unexplained blood sugar fluctuations. It’s also used to diagnose certain metabolic disorders or to monitor treatment effectiveness in conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or acromegaly.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll fast for about 8–12 hours before the test. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as some may need to be adjusted or paused. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.
How the Test Is Performed
A blood sample is drawn from a vein (usually in your arm) after you’ve consumed a specified dose of glucose. The sample is sent to a lab for measurement using an immunoassay method to detect insulin levels.
What the Results Mean
Results help determine if your body produces enough insulin to regulate blood sugar properly. Abnormal findings may indicate conditions like insulin resistance, diabetes, or other metabolic disorders that require further evaluation.
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.
Clinical Significance: Insulin resistance and impaired glucose tolerance are common but often asymptomatic. This test can identify subtle dysfunctions in insulin production or action, guiding treatment to prevent long-term complications such as heart disease, nerve damage, or kidney issues.
Short name
Insulin Level (Post-Glucose Challenge)
Frequently asked questions
Will fasting affect my results?
Can I take my usual medications before the test?
How long will I need to wait for my 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