Glucose
Tolerance Test (GTT)
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Requirements prior to the test
- An appointment is required for this test. To book, call your preferred collection centre. Visit our Locations pages to find the nearest centre.
- Patients in WA only: If you are unable to reach your selected collection centre by phone, please email gtt.wa@clinicallabs.com.au to begin the appointment booking process.
- You are to remain on a normal, unrestricted diet for at least 3 days prior to the test.
- You have had no significant illness for 2 weeks prior to the test.
- Fasting is required. Do not eat or drink for 10-12 hours prior to your blood test.
- Drinking water before your procedure is permitted and may help reduce the risk of fainting, as well as make it easier for the collector to locate your veins.
- Medications should only be stopped on the instructions of your doctor. Take them with water only.
- Due to the nature of the test, testing is generally done in the morning.
- Maintain normal activity prior to the test.
- Avoid smoking for 2 hours before and during the test.
- Before drinking the glucose, please inform the collection staff if you have any allergies.
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What the procedure involves
Note: If you are prone to fainting, please inform the collector before the procedure.
- Collection of a fasting blood sample.
- Drinking a 75g bottle of glucose within 5 minutes.
- Collection of a blood sample 1 hour after consuming glucose.
- Collection of a blood sample 2 hours after consuming glucose.
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What to do during the procedure
- You must remain seated quietly during the test.
- You will be at the collection centre for a minimum of 2 hours.
- You are required to remain in the collection centre until the procedure is completed.
- Bring some reading material or other activity to pass the time.
- If you feel unwell during the test, please inform the collection staff, as you may wish to
lie
down.
Note: If insulin levels are requested along with the GTT, the collection staff will draw blood for this in a separate tube, at the same time that each glucose blood sample is collected.
Download Instructions
Related Pages
Preparing For Your Test
Prepare for your pathology test with essential information on fasting requirements, patient support and specific test instructions.
Aftercare Instructions
Follow these aftercare guidelines to help minimise bleeding, bruising and discomfort after your blood test.
FAQ
Find answers to common pathology test questions, including preparation, fasting guidelines, collection centre locations, opening hours and aftercare tips at Clinical Labs.