Insulin, Serum/Plasma — 5-Minute Post-Challenge, Concentration
Measures insulin in the blood five minutes after a standardized challenge, usually to assess early insulin release alongside glucose levels.
["This timed insulin test helps evaluate early insulin release in response to a glucose challenge."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 27874-7
- Short code
- Insulin sp5 p chal SerPl-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Insulin sp5 p chal SerPl-aCnc
- 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 a blood sample taken five minutes after a standardized challenge, such as a glucose load. It is usually evaluated together with the glucose measurements taken during the same test.
Why might I need this test?
A clinician may order this test to assess how quickly the body releases insulin after a glucose challenge. It can provide information about early insulin secretion and how the body handles blood glucose.
How is the test performed?
Blood is collected at precisely timed intervals during the challenge. The five-minute insulin sample is measured in the laboratory, and its result is compared with the other glucose and insulin results from the test.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the challenge instructions provided by the testing facility, including any fasting requirements. Do not eat, drink anything other than water, or change medications unless your clinician specifically instructs 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.
A lower-than-expected early insulin response may occur with impaired first-phase insulin secretion. A higher insulin response, especially when glucose is also elevated, may be associated with insulin resistance. Results must be interpreted using the challenge protocol, medication use, and the other glucose measurements because these factors can substantially affect insulin levels.
Short name
5-minute post-challenge insulin
Frequently asked questions
Why is timing important for this insulin test?
Is this the same as a routine insulin test?
Do I need to stop taking diabetes medications?
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