General
Morning Cortisol
Lab test

Morning Cortisol

Ordered for people with symptoms that may suggest adrenal dysfunction — including persistent fatigue, low blood pressure, unexplained weight loss, or salt craving — and as follow-up when cortisol excess is being investigated. Must be tested in the morning, ideally between 7–9 AM. Results reviewed by a General Medicine clinician.

Receive actionable insights and deep analysis—not just lab values– in as little as 48 hours

Clear guidance, and follow-up care available

Simple, online scheduling for labs and everything else

Most insurance accepted

Board-certified

No hidden fees

Available nationwide

What is a Morning Cortisol Test?

The Morning Cortisol test measures cortisol — the body's primary stress and energy-regulation hormone — at the time of its natural daily peak. Because cortisol levels are highest within the first hour of waking and decline significantly through the day, morning testing captures the most diagnostically meaningful result for evaluating adrenal function and identifying both deficiency and excess.

Adrenal insufficiency screening

A low morning cortisol suggests the adrenal glands may not be producing adequate cortisol — consistent with primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease) or secondary insufficiency from pituitary dysfunction. Both conditions require clinical follow-up and often further testing to confirm.

Cushing's syndrome evaluation

Elevated morning cortisol, particularly when combined with other clinical features, raises concern for cortisol excess — prompting additional evaluation such as 24-hour urine cortisol or dexamethasone suppression testing to confirm the diagnosis.

Adrenal and stress response assessment

Cortisol is central to energy regulation, immune function, blood pressure, and the body's stress response. Abnormal levels — whether high or low — can explain a wide range of symptoms including fatigue, mood changes, weight changes, and blood pressure dysregulation.

Complete insights in as little as 48 hours

1

Book your test

Instantly schedule at 2,000+ labs nationwide, at a time that works for you. Most visits take 15 minutes or less, with both walk-ins and appointments available.

2

Get results in 48 hours

Your results are delivered quickly—and reviewed by medical professionals. You’ll get clear explanations, robust health insights, and recommended next steps tailored to your health needs.

3

Take action with physician guidance

Choose to review your results and manage your plan with a General Medicine physician—or simply use the insights on your own.

4

Track progress over time

Repeat annually to see trends, improvements, and new emerging risks or book individual tests that focus on your set goals

All your care in one place. That’s the General Medicine difference.

We help you understand your options, connect you to the right clinicians, manage prescriptions, coordinate any needed evaluations, and keep an eye on your overall health along the way. It’s comprehensive care that looks at the full picture — your goals, your history, your lifestyle — and makes it simple to move forward with confidence.

Your care plan
Clinician

What's included

Test type

Blood sample

Collection method

Venipuncture

Fasting

Not required

Results processing time

1 to 2 days

Cortisol

Measures your body’s main stress hormone, revealing imbalances that can affect energy, mood, and more.

Virtual visit with clinician

Ongoing support, always available.

You’ll be supported by experienced clinicians who care for a wide range of health needs, from everyday concerns to more complex conditions.

Our clinicians track your progress over time and adjust your care as needed. If medication is prescribed, we’ll manage dosing and monitor for side effects. If lab testing is recommended, we review results and refine your plan accordingly. You’re never left to navigate care on your own.

What our customers have to say

Hear from people who felt heard, understood, and supported on General Medicine.

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Natalie, Texas

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“General Medicine helped me get the imaging and blood work I needed, referred me to the right specialists, and even helped me find a new family doctor.”

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Order your lab today.

Frequently asked questions

Why does cortisol need to be tested in the morning?

Cortisol follows a strong diurnal rhythm — levels are highest within 30–60 minutes of waking (the cortisol awakening response) and decline significantly through the day. Testing in the morning, ideally between 7–9 AM, captures the physiologically meaningful peak and produces diagnostically reliable results.

Do I need to fast before a morning cortisol test?

Yes — fasting for 8–10 hours is generally recommended. The blood draw should ideally be done first thing in the morning before eating, physical exertion, or significant stress, all of which can affect results. Arrive for your appointment as early as possible.

What symptoms suggest cortisol testing is appropriate?

Unexplained fatigue, low blood pressure, salt craving, weight loss, and skin darkening may suggest adrenal insufficiency (low cortisol). Weight gain, a rounded face, purple stretch marks, easy bruising, and high blood sugar can indicate cortisol excess (Cushing's syndrome).

Can stress or illness affect my cortisol result?

Yes — both acute physical and psychological stress can elevate cortisol, potentially masking true adrenal insufficiency or appearing falsely elevated. If you're acutely ill or under significant stress on the day of testing, mention this when your results are reviewed.

What happens if my cortisol is low or borderline?

A single low morning cortisol result may prompt further evaluation — typically an ACTH stimulation test, which assesses how well the adrenal glands respond to stimulation. A General Medicine clinician can review your result and determine appropriate next steps.
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