Notice: This test kit is not available for purchase by residents of New York due to state restrictions. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Quick Facts
- Sample: Saliva (1 mL per tube)
- Fasting: No fasting required
- Turn-around: 8-10 business days once the lab receives the specimen. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.s
Benefits
- Convenient at-home collection - Simple saliva samples, no needles or blood draws required
- Measures active hormones - Tests biologically active "free" hormones for accurate HPA axis assessment
- Tracks daily hormone rhythms - Four cortisol samples reveal natural circadian patterns
- Quick results - Get comprehensive adrenal function insights in just 8-10 business days
- Private and secure - Confidential ordering and result delivery
- CLIA-certified accuracy - Tested by FDA-approved lab for reliable, clinical-grade results
Who Is This Test For?
- Individuals experiencing chronic fatigue or unexplained low energy levels
- People dealing with persistent stress or difficulty managing daily stressors
- Those with sleep disturbances including trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
- Anyone with mood swings, sugar cravings, or dizziness symptoms
- Patients monitoring existing adrenal conditions or treatment response
- Health-conscious individuals seeking preventive screening for burnout or stress-related illness
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
- Collect samples - Gather 4 cortisol samples (morning, noon, evening, night) and 1 DHEA sample using provided tubes
- Ship to lab - Freeze samples overnight, then ship with included ice pack following kit instructions
- Get results - Receive comprehensive hormone analysis within 8-10 business days of lab receipt
FAQ
What hormones does this test measure? Four cortisol samples throughout the day (morning, noon, evening, night) plus one DHEA sample to assess complete adrenal function.
Is saliva testing as accurate as blood tests for hormones? Yes - saliva testing provides clinically relevant results for bioavailable hormones and shows 93% sensitivity in detecting adrenal rhythm abnormalities (Mayo Clinic 2023).
How much saliva do I need for each sample? Only 1 mL per tube (about 3/4 full) - much less stressful than blood draws and easier to complete.
Can I eat or drink before collecting samples? Avoid eating, drinking (except water), brushing teeth, or tobacco use 30-60 minutes before each collection for accurate results.
When should women collect samples? Women should ideally collect between days 19-21 of their menstrual cycle for most accurate hormone assessment.
Do I need a doctor's order for this test? No - this direct-to-consumer test allows you to order independently and discuss results with your healthcare provider.
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
The Adrenal Function Saliva Panel assesses how well your adrenal glands are working by measuring cortisol rhythms throughout the day and DHEA levels (Endocrine Society 2023). Your adrenal glands, located above your kidneys, produce these crucial hormones that help manage stress response, energy levels, immune function, and overall health. By tracking cortisol's natural rise and fall over 24 hours, this test reveals whether your hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is functioning optimally or showing signs of dysfunction.
Who would benefit from this test?
This test is particularly valuable for individuals experiencing symptoms that may indicate adrenal hormone imbalances. Up to 75% of patients with unexplained chronic fatigue show HPA axis disruption in salivary hormone studies (Journal of Clinical Endocrinology 2022). Those dealing with persistent stress, sleep disorders, mood changes, or unexplained fatigue can gain insights into potential underlying hormonal causes. The test is also useful for monitoring patients already under treatment for adrenal conditions or those at high risk for stress-related illnesses.
When should I order the Adrenal Function Saliva Panel?
Consider ordering this test if you experience persistent low energy despite adequate sleep, difficulty managing stress, sleep disturbances, mood swings, sugar cravings, or dizziness. It's particularly helpful when these symptoms interfere with daily activities or when you suspect burnout or chronic stress may be affecting your health. The test is also valuable for monitoring treatment progress in known adrenal conditions or for preventive screening if you're at high risk for stress-related health issues.
How do I interpret the results?
Your results compare your hormone levels to established reference ranges at each time point throughout the day. A healthy cortisol pattern shows a morning peak (30 minutes after waking), gradual decline through the day, and lowest levels at bedtime. DHEA should fall within age-adjusted normal ranges.
Normal rhythm
- What it means: Healthy adrenal function
- Typical considerations: Continue current lifestyle practices
Elevated cortisol
- What it means: Possible adrenal overactivity
- Typical considerations: Stress management, lifestyle changes
Low cortisol
- What it means: Possible adrenal insufficiency
- Typical considerations: Medical evaluation recommended
Flattened curve
- What it means: Disrupted circadian rhythm
- Typical considerations: Sleep hygiene, stress reduction
Abnormal DHEA
- What it means: Adrenal dysfunction
- Typical considerations: Further evaluation needed
Chronic stress, as measured by abnormal cortisol rhythms, is associated with a 38% higher risk of depression and anxiety disorders (CDC 2023).
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Pre-test preparation
For accurate results, avoid eating, drinking anything except water, brushing teeth, or using tobacco products 30-60 minutes before each sample collection. Women should ideally collect samples between days 19-21 of their menstrual cycle. Avoid hormonal creams or medications that might interfere with results - consult the kit instructions for specific guidance based on your medications. Store collection tubes properly and follow timing instructions carefully for each of the four daily samples.
How often should I get tested?
- Initial screening: Once, then as needed
- Monitoring treatment: Every 3–6 months
- Chronic conditions: Every 6–12 months
- High stress periods: Every 6 months
- Symptom changes: As symptoms warrant
Why early detection matters
Early identification of adrenal dysfunction can significantly improve quality of life and prevent complications. Adrenal insufficiency affects approximately 100-140 per million people annually in the U.S. (Mayo Clinic 2023). Early detection and management can reduce fatigue-related work absenteeism by up to 40% (Johns Hopkins Medicine 2024). Addressing hormone imbalances promptly helps prevent the progression to more severe symptoms and supports overall health and wellbeing.
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