Amylase is a digestive enzyme produced primarily by the pancreas and salivary glands. Elevated levels can indicate pancreatitis, pancreatic disorders, or other digestive conditions.
Amylase is an enzyme that breaks down starches into sugars during digestion. While it's produced by both the pancreas and salivary glands, blood amylase levels primarily reflect pancreatic function.
When the pancreas is inflamed or damaged (as in pancreatitis), amylase leaks into the bloodstream, causing elevated levels. Amylase typically rises within 6-12 hours of acute pancreatitis onset and returns to normal within 3-5 days.
This test is commonly ordered alongside lipase for a more complete picture of pancreatic health. While amylase is less specific to the pancreas than lipase (it can also rise with salivary gland issues), it remains a valuable marker for pancreatic disorders.
Price
$11
Results
1-2 days
Lab Network
Quest
Fasting
Not Required
What's Measured
What This Test Measures
This test measures the level of amylase enzyme in your blood, reported in U/L (units per liter). Normal amylase levels typically range from 30-110 U/L, though reference ranges may vary slightly by laboratory. Elevated levels suggest pancreatic inflammation or damage.
Who Should Consider This Test
Anyone experiencing upper abdominal pain (especially after eating), nausea, vomiting, or symptoms of pancreatitis. Also useful for monitoring chronic pancreatitis, evaluating digestive issues, and as part of comprehensive metabolic screening.
Health Insights
Conditions Screened
Related Symptoms
When to Get Tested
No fasting required. Can be tested anytime. For suspected acute pancreatitis, test as soon as possible - amylase rises within hours of onset. Best tested alongside lipase for comprehensive pancreatic evaluation.
Understanding Your Results
Normal amylase: 30-110 U/L. Levels 3+ times normal strongly suggest acute pancreatitis. Mildly elevated levels may indicate chronic pancreatitis, salivary gland issues, or other GI conditions. Very low levels are rare but may occur with pancreatic insufficiency.
What to Expect
After placing your order, you'll receive an email from Rupa Health (our lab order partner) within 24 business hours to sign a consent form and schedule your blood draw at a Quest Diagnostics location.
The blood draw typically takes just a few minutes. Results are usually available within 1-2 business days and will appear in your secure Justlabs dashboard.
Our results include reference ranges and easy-to-understand indicators showing whether your values are within normal limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
$11
Typical hospital cash price: $150–$250
+ $28 in standard lab & physician fees at checkout (no additional bills later)
$18 lab collection + $10 physician order
Need Help Choosing?
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Take the QuizSave More with a Panel
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