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Glucagon Blood Test
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Lab Tests

Glucagon Blood Test

The glucagon blood test measures the levels of a hormone produced by the pancreas that works with insulin to regulate blood glucose levels.

What is a Glucagon Blood Test?

Glucagon is a hormone that increases blood glucose (sugar) levels, while insulin decreases them. When blood glucose drops, the pancreas releases glucagon to maintain balance. If the pancreas fails to release the correct amount of glucagon, it can lead to serious health issues.

What is it Used For?

The test is primarily used to help diagnose:

  • Hypoglycemia: Abnormally low blood glucose, which can be dangerous and is often associated with diabetes management.
  • Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, which can be acute or chronic.
  • Glucagonoma: A rare, usually cancerous, tumor of the pancreas.

Why Do I Need This Test?

You may need this test if you exhibit symptoms of hypoglycemia or a pancreatic tumor. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include rapid heartbeat, anxiety, sweating, blurred vision, fatigue, and hunger. Symptoms of a pancreatic tumor may include a rash, diarrhea, weight loss, or mouth sores.

What Happens During the Test

A health care professional will collect a blood sample from a vein in your arm. You may be required to fast for several hours before the procedure.

Understanding Results

Abnormal glucagon levels may indicate hypoglycemia, diabetes, pancreatitis, or a glucagonoma. It is important to note that the glucagon blood test is distinct from the glucagon stimulation test, which is used to check for growth hormone issues in children.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Most labs ask you to fast for at least 8 hours (usually overnight) before the draw to avoid food‑induced fluctuations in glucose and hormone levels. Water is allowed, but avoid coffee, tea, or any caloric drinks.
bsolutely. Drugs that affect glucose metabolism—such as insulin, sulfonylureas, glucagon‑like peptide‑1 (GLP‑1) agonists, corticosteroids, and beta‑blockers—can alter glucagon levels. Over‑the‑counter supplements containing amino acids or herbal extracts that influence pancreatic function may also affect the test. Tell your clinician about every medication and supplement you take; they may ask you to hold some agents for a short period before sampling.
low glucagon level can suggest an impaired pancreatic α‑cell response, which may be seen in chronic hyperinsulinemia, certain pancreatic surgeries, or rare genetic disorders. Your doctor will likely repeat the test under controlled conditions (e.g., after a supervised fast) and may order additional studies such as a mixed‑meal tolerance test or imaging of the pancreas to pinpoint the cause.
High glucagon alone does not confirm a glucagonoma; it merely raises suspicion, especially if accompanied by characteristic symptoms (necrolytic migratory erythema, weight loss, diabetes‑like hyperglycemia). Diagnosis requires imaging—usually a contrast‑enhanced CT or MRI of the abdomen—and sometimes endoscopic ultrasound or somatostatin receptor scintigraphy to locate the tumor. Blood tests for other pancreatic hormones may also be performed.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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