Test library
Diurnal Cortisol Test
This test measures cortisol in the morning and again in the afternoon, showing how the hormone rises and falls through the day to support adrenal evaluation.
Order Cortisol AM & PM Test
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order Cortisol AM & PM Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $129
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The cortisol AM and PM test measures the hormone cortisol at two points in the day, typically in the morning and late afternoon. Cortisol follows a daily rhythm, and comparing the two samples gives a more informative view than a single measurement. The test is intended for people being evaluated for adrenal or stress hormone concerns. A healthcare provider interprets the pattern with your symptoms.
What this test measures
This test measures blood cortisol twice in one day to capture its natural daily variation. Cortisol is produced by the adrenal glands and normally peaks shortly after waking, then declines through the day. This rhythm supports metabolism, blood pressure regulation, and the body's response to stress. Comparing morning and afternoon values helps a provider assess whether the pattern is typical or whether further evaluation is needed.
Two blood samples are collected at times specified by the laboratory, usually in the morning and later in the afternoon. The laboratory measures total serum cortisol with an immunoassay. Related tests such as ACTH, cortisol-binding globulin, or free cortisol may be added when a provider wants more detail. Collection timing matters because cortisol changes quickly, so samples should be drawn as close to the scheduled times as possible.
People order this test when a provider suspects an adrenal hormone imbalance or wants to evaluate symptoms such as persistent fatigue, unexplained weight change, or blood pressure changes. It is a diagnostic support tool rather than a standalone answer. A qualified healthcare provider should interpret the results with your schedule, medications, sleep pattern, and other clinical information.
- Serum cortisol, morning sample
- Serum cortisol, afternoon sample
- Cortisol diurnal variation between samples
- Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) when included
- Cortisol-binding globulin when included
- Free cortisol when included
Why people order this test
- Evaluate the daily cortisol rhythm rather than a single value
- Investigate persistent fatigue or stress-related symptoms
- Support an adrenal hormone evaluation
- Monitor a known cortisol-related condition over time
- Provide paired samples for a provider to compare
How to prepare
Two blood draws are scheduled at specific times, usually in the morning and late afternoon, so follow the timing instructions closely. No fasting is typically required unless other tests are included. Tell the laboratory about medications, sleep schedule, and recent illness, since these can affect cortisol.
Understanding your results
Results are generally available within one to three business days. The report shows both cortisol values and may describe the change between them. A healthcare provider should interpret the pattern with your symptoms, collection times, and other hormone results.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why are two cortisol samples needed?
Cortisol changes through the day, so comparing a morning and an afternoon sample shows the daily rhythm better than one measurement.
What time of day are the samples collected?
Typically one sample is drawn in the morning and one in the late afternoon, but the exact times are set by the laboratory and provider.
Do I need to fast?
Fasting is usually not required unless additional tests are part of the order. Follow the specific instructions provided.
Can medications affect cortisol results?
Yes. Some medications and health conditions influence cortisol, so tell your provider and the laboratory what you take.
What symptoms might prompt cortisol testing?
Persistent fatigue, weight changes, and blood pressure changes are examples. A healthcare provider decides whether testing is appropriate.
Ready to get tested?
Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
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