Information about a laboratory test

Low C-Peptide: What Does It Mean?

Low C-peptide can occur when endogenous insulin production is reduced; the simultaneous glucose level is important.

Test summary

Test name
C-Peptide
Abbreviations
C-peptide, Insulin C-peptide
Category
Endocrinology / Glucose Metabolism
Panel
Pancreatic Beta-Cell Function
Specimen
Serum / plasma
Common units
ng/mL, nmol/L

What does the test measure?

Measures C-peptide, which is released in parallel with insulin made by the pancreas.

Why is the test ordered?

Used to assess endogenous insulin production and in selected evaluations of unexplained hypoglycemia or pancreatic conditions.

Information about a low result

Low C-peptide can occur when endogenous insulin production is reduced; the simultaneous glucose level is important.

Information about a high result

High C-peptide may reflect increased endogenous insulin production or other factors such as kidney function.

Reference and clinical context

Use the performing laboratory's report and the sampling conditions first. Fasting status, timing, and whether the test is diagnostic or for monitoring can change interpretation.

Reference range 1

>= 1.1 – <= 4.4 ng/mL

Population
Adults
Specimen
Serum / plasma

Example fasting reference interval

The source laboratory gives >=1.1–<=4.4 ng/mL as an example interval. Use the performing laboratory's own reference interval for an individual result.

Reference ranges may vary by laboratory, method used, age, sex, pregnancy status, and clinical context. The reference range on your own laboratory report takes precedence.

Interpretation notes

C-peptide remains in the blood longer than insulin. Fasting status and simultaneous glucose are important for interpretation.

Related specialties

  • Endocrinology
  • Internal Medicine
  • Family Medicine
  • Pediatric Endocrinology

Frequently asked questions

Sources

  1. Insulin in Blood — U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus)

    Government medical reference · 2026 · Insulin blood testing and interpretation with glucose/C-peptide · Verified: Aug 12, 2026

  2. C-Peptide Test — U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus)

    Government medical reference · 2026 · C-peptide use for endogenous insulin production and hypoglycemia context · Verified: Aug 12, 2026

  3. C-Peptide — Labcorp

    Reference laboratory test catalog · 2026 · Example fasting C-peptide reference interval and specimen preparation · Verified: Aug 12, 2026