Insulin, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration
Measures insulin in a blood sample. The result is most useful when interpreted together with blood glucose and the timing of the test.
["An insulin blood test helps show how the body regulates blood sugar when considered alongside a glucose test."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 3695-4
- Short code
- Insulin SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Insulin 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
What is this test?
This test measures the amount of insulin in your blood. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that helps move glucose, the body's main source of energy, into cells for use.
Why might I need this test?
Your doctor may order an insulin test to evaluate how your body responds to glucose, investigate unusually high or low blood sugar, or assess insulin production. It is often interpreted with a glucose measurement taken at the same time.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein and separated into serum or plasma, depending on the laboratory method. The laboratory then measures the concentration of insulin in the sample.
How do I prepare for the test?
Preparation depends on why the test was ordered. Some insulin tests are performed while fasting, while others are timed after a meal or a glucose load. Follow your clinician's instructions about eating and medication, and ask if you are unsure.
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.
Insulin levels that are higher than expected may occur with insulin resistance, obesity, type 2 diabetes, or after taking insulin. Less commonly, unexpectedly high insulin with low blood sugar can suggest excess insulin production. Low or inappropriately normal insulin in the setting of high blood sugar may indicate reduced insulin production. Results must be interpreted with glucose levels, symptoms, medications, and the timing of the blood draw.
Short name
Insulin
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as a glucose test?
Does the insulin test require fasting?
Can I take insulin before this test?
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