$7.00
Priced per marker, with baseline labs included. You’ll see your total before you pay.
Brain & nervous system
Cortisol (AM) test
Morning cortisol. Morning cortisol when levels peak; screens for adrenal insufficiency and Cushing's syndrome.
At a glance
In about 5 days
Most results are ready in about 5 days. Some specialty markers can take up to 21 days.
Best at a set time of day or cycle day
Contact us before your draw if you’re not sure.
Walk in at Quest
Your lab order arrives by email. Most Quest locations take walk-ins, so bring it with a photo ID.
What it measures
Cortisol is your main stress hormone, and it helps control blood sugar, blood pressure, and energy. It can peak in the morning, which is why it’s checked then.
Why it matters for women
Estrogen from birth control or pregnancy can raise the protein that carries cortisol, which can make total cortisol read higher even when your adrenal glands are fine. Cushing’s syndrome, when the body makes too much cortisol, is more common in women and can disrupt periods. A morning level can be most useful for spotting cortisol that runs too low.
You might check it if…
- you feel drained, dizzy, or faint and are losing weight
- you crave salt and often feel weak
- a doctor wants to check how your adrenal glands are working
What your result may mean
High Cortisol (AM): what it may mean
High morning cortisol may come from physical or emotional stress, depression, steroid medicines or Cushing's syndrome, when the body makes too much cortisol over time. Estrogen can raise the protein that carries cortisol, so pregnancy and birth control pills can push a total level up even when the adrenal glands are fine. With Cushing's, you may notice weight gain around the middle, stretch marks, easy bruising or changes in your periods. One morning result can't settle the question, so a clinician may add late-night saliva, urine or dexamethasone testing. Poor sleep and biotin supplements can also sway some cortisol tests.
Low Cortisol (AM): what it may mean
Low morning cortisol may raise concern for adrenal insufficiency, when the adrenal glands can't make enough cortisol (Addison's disease) or the pituitary sends too little ACTH. Long-term steroid use can also quiet the body's own cortisol production, and that can stay true for a while after stopping. You may notice tiredness, dizziness, nausea, weight loss or salt cravings. A draw done later than the morning peak can read lower as well. To look closer, a clinician may follow up with an ACTH stimulation test.
Get started
Stop guessing. Start testing.
Answer a few questions. We’ll suggest tests linked to how you feel, with a clear price for every test.
No insurance required · HSA/FSA eligible · No subscription
These notes provide context and do not diagnose a condition. Not yet available in NY, NJ, RI, HI, ND, SD or WV.