Description
Why It’s Done
The test is ordered to:
1. Evaluate Insulin Production
• To determine how much insulin your pancreas is producing, especially in people with diabetes.
2. Differentiate Types of Diabetes
• Helps distinguish between type 1 diabetes (low insulin production) and type 2 diabetes (normal or high insulin production).
3. Monitor Insulin Therapy
• To assess residual insulin production in people receiving insulin injections.
4. Detect Insulinoma
• To help diagnose insulin-secreting tumors of the pancreas.
Preparation
1. Fasting
• You need to fast for 8 to 12 hours before the test (no food or drink except water).
2. Medications
• Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, especially insulin or oral diabetes medications.
3. Sample Collection
• A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm.
• The procedure is quick and minimally invasive.
