Comprehensive Metabolic Panel
Glucose, electrolytes, kidney and liver enzymes — the foundational snapshot of metabolic health.
Blood draw
24 hrs
Physician-reviewed
What this panel measures
- Glucose — blood sugar at the time of the draw
- BUN and creatinine — kidney filtration efficiency
- Sodium, potassium, chloride, CO2, calcium — electrolyte and acid-base balance
- ALT, AST, ALP — liver enzymes that flag injury or obstruction
- Total bilirubin, albumin, and total protein — liver function and nutrition
Why providers order it
- Annual wellness screening and baseline health snapshots
- Diabetes and prediabetes screening (paired with HbA1c)
- Monitoring medications that affect the liver or kidneys, such as statins and blood-pressure drugs
- Investigating persistent fatigue, frequent urination, or unexplained weight change
Fasting 8–12 hours is recommended so the glucose reading is accurate. Water is fine — take medications as usual unless your provider says otherwise.
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel: frequently asked questions
What does a comprehensive metabolic panel check for?
A CMP checks 14 markers covering blood sugar, kidney filtration, electrolytes, and liver enzymes. It is the single most common panel for annual physicals because it screens several organ systems from one blood draw.
Do I need to fast before a CMP?
Fasting 8–12 hours is recommended so your glucose value reflects your resting metabolism rather than a recent meal. Water and usual medications are fine.
How long do CMP results take?
CMP results are typically reported within 24 hours of collection and are reviewed by a physician before release.
Often ordered together
Complete Blood Count + Differential
Red cells, white cells, and platelets to screen for anemia, infection, and immune response.
Hemoglobin A1c
90-day average blood sugar — the definitive marker of glycemic control and diabetes risk.
Advanced Lipid Panel + ApoB
Beyond standard cholesterol: particle counts and ApoB for true cardiovascular risk stratification.
This page is educational and does not replace medical advice. Testing decisions should be reviewed with a licensed provider.