LAB PREPARATION
PREP FOR
YOUR BLOOD
DRAW.
Accurate labs start with a little preparation. These are general guidelines — your provider may give you specific instructions based on your situation.
ALL PATIENTS
GENERAL
PREPARATION.
Follow these steps to ensure accurate results.
01
FASTING
- No food for 10 – 12 hours before your draw
- Water is fine (and encouraged)
- Black coffee or tea is okay — no creamer or sugar
02
HYDRATION
- Drink plenty of water 1 – 2 hours before your draw
- Makes your veins easier to find
- Avoid alcohol the night before
03
AVOID
- Heavy or fatty meals the night before
- NSAIDs (Advil, ibuprofen) for 48 hours before
- Alcohol the night before
MEN'S GUIDELINES
FOR MEN.
Additional considerations for accurate hormone testing.
01TimingCortisol, testosterone, or prolactin: Schedule between 7:30 – 9:30 AM
02Testosterone InjectionsHold injections for 3 days before your labs. Schedule your draw for the morning of your injection day, before dosing. Resume after your lab.
03PSA TestingAvoid heavy workouts for 24 hours before. Avoid sexual activity for 24 hours before.
WOMEN'S GUIDELINES
FOR WOMEN.
Timing matters for accurate hormone results.
01Hormone MedicationsEstrogen & progesterone: Continue as normal. Testosterone injections: Hold for 3 days before labs.
02TimingCortisol, testosterone, or prolactin: Schedule between 7:30 – 9:30 AM. If cycling: Schedule on Day 3 of your period. Not cycling / postmenopausal: Follow fasting and hydration steps.
If your cycle doesn't line up with your appointment: Don't cancel online. Text or call us at (949) 997-3988 and we'll help you figure out what to do.
QUICK REFERENCE
MEDICATIONS
GUIDE.
What to continue, skip, or stop before your labs.
STOP
NSAIDs (Advil, ibuprofen)
Stop 48 hours before
SKIP
Thyroid Meds
Skip morning of draw, take after
HOLD
Testosterone Injections
Hold 3 days before
CONTINUE
Estrogen & Progesterone
Continue as normal
DAY OF
BEFORE YOU
LEAVE.
Run through this checklist the morning of your appointment.
Arrive 5 – 10 minutes early to check in
Bring a valid ID (driver’s license, passport)
Fasted 10 – 12 hours (water / black coffee okay)
Hydrated in the 1 – 2 hours before
Skipped thyroid meds this morning
Wearing a shirt with sleeves that roll up
Packed a snack for after your draw
QUESTIONS
NOT SURE
ABOUT
SOMETHING?
If anything is unclear or you're unsure how to prepare, just ask. We're happy to help.
(949) 997-3988Text or call anytime
READY TO
BOOK YOUR
LABS?
If you found this page but haven't scheduled yet, start with an assessment.
Range Medical • 1901 Westcliff Dr, Newport Beach • (949) 997-3988