What is an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)?

An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) checks how your child’s  body handles glucose (sugar). If the body does not handle sugar the right way, it can lead to  prediabetes or diabetes. If your child has 1 of these conditions, they may need medicine or other treatments.

How Do I Prepare My Child for the Test?

• Call central scheduling at 414-607-5280 or 877-607-5280 to make a visit for the test.
• When you call, tell them that the test is an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), so it is scheduled the right way.
  • This test can be done at the Milwaukee or Appleton lab.
  • Monday through Friday and must start before 10:00 AM.
• Your child should eat normally for the week before the test.
• Do not eat a low-carb or keto diet before the test.
• Your child cannot eat or drink anything except water for 8 hours before the test.
• If your child eats or drinks anything other than water, the test will be cancelled.
• If your child does not have a recent weight in their chart, they will need to have their weight checked before the test.

How is the Test Done?

The test takes about 2 to 3 hours. Plan to stay near the lab during the test. Your child can do quiet activities while waiting.  Bring things to help keep them calm and busy. Your child cannot eat or drink anything between blood tests, including sugar-free foods. Water is okay.

1. First, a blood test is done to check your child’s blood sugar.
2. Next, your child will drink a sweet drink. They must finish it in 5 to 10 minutes.
3. Then, another blood test is done 2 hours after the test starts. This is how the body handles the sugar.

What Happens After the Test?

Your child’s provider will contact you with the test results.

Attention: This test cannot be done if your child is sick. Please call and cancel the test if your child is sick on the day of the test.