Insulin, Serum/Plasma, 2-Hour Post-Glucose Challenge — Substance Concentration
A timed blood test that measures insulin 2 hours after a glucose challenge to assess how effectively the body regulates blood sugar.
["This test shows how much insulin your body releases in response to a standardized glucose load."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 25692-5
- Short code
- Insulin sp2 p chal SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Insulin sp2 p chal SerPl-sCnc
- 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 concentration of insulin in your blood 2 hours after a glucose challenge. It is usually interpreted along with the glucose levels measured before and after the challenge.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order it to evaluate insulin secretion and how your body responds to a glucose load. It can provide information when assessing blood sugar disorders, insulin resistance, or an unexpectedly high or low glucose result.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected at the scheduled time after you drink the prescribed glucose solution. The laboratory measures the insulin in the sample, and the result is reviewed together with glucose measurements and your medical history.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the testing center's instructions about fasting, the glucose challenge, and the exact collection time. Do not change medications or your usual diet unless your healthcare professional specifically tells you to do so.
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.
An elevated insulin response may occur with insulin resistance or when the body is not clearing glucose effectively. A low or delayed insulin response may suggest reduced insulin secretion. Because interpretation depends strongly on the accompanying glucose results, an abnormal insulin value alone does not establish a diagnosis.
Short name
2-hour post-challenge insulin
Frequently asked questions
Why is this insulin test timed?
Does this test diagnose diabetes by itself?
Should I take my medicines or eat normally before the 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