Insulin, Free and Total Blood Test

Also Known As

Insulin Blood Test, Serum Insulin Test

The Purpose of an Insulin Lab Test

Insulin is produced by the pancreas to help your body perform the all-important cellular function of converting sugar into energy. Without enough insulin, however, those sugars build up in the blood, which can lead to complications such as organ damage, nerve disorders, and vision problems. (Low or nonexistent insulin production is the hallmark of diabetes.) Alternatively, too much insulin can lead to symptoms of low blood sugar, such as nausea, anxiety, disorientation, sweating, and arrhythmia. The insulin blood test assesses levels in people who have conditions that affect their blood sugars, such as diabetes, to monitor treatment, detect insulin resistance, and adjust medication if needed.

What Does the Insulin Total Test Measure?

There are two kinds of insulin measured in this test. Bound insulin gets its name because it is stuck to proteins in the blood. Free insulin, on the other hand, is not found on these proteins.

Who Should Take an Insulin Serum Test?

You may want to consider an insulin lab test if you have symptoms associated with low blood sugar or diabetes. It can also be an insightful test if you have diabetes and need to monitor insulin production.

Blood Insulin Test Preparation

In general, fasting for 12 to 14 hours is required to obtain accurate results from your insulin serum test. It may also be advisable to speak to someone at your lab location if you are on supplements or medication to see if you need to stop taking them so they don’t interfere with your results.

Insulin Free and Total Blood Test Results

Your free insulin levels should be under 17 mcU/mL. If you have questions about your results or need to inquire about further testing options, you can book a telehealth visit with one of our Personalabs doctors.

Where Can I Get an Insulin Free and Total Blood Test Near Me?

Blood tests are critical for diagnosing and managing diabetes and other blood sugar disorders. The blood insulin test is one of many diabetes tests you can get at Personalabs. Plus, you get the convenience of shopping online from our vast collection of 400-plus tests and then choosing from among 4,000-plus Labcorp and Quest Diagnostics locations across the country to complete your testing.

Here’s how easy it is:

Step 1: Determine if you live in a state that requires a doctor’s approval to get a test, then purchase the one you want. Download the lab order that comes with it.

Step 2: Find your nearest facility with the lab locator on our website and schedule your blood test appointment.

Step 3: Bring the lab order to your testing appointment and complete the blood draw.

Step 4: See the results in your secure Personalabs portal. They usually are ready within 2 to 10 business days after your test. However, if you need them back by a specific time, contact us and we will work with your lab.

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