Adrenal Function Panel
What's in the Adrenal Function Panel
Focused adrenal panel measuring morning cortisol and DHEA-sulfate. Strict timing matters: bloods must be drawn between 8 and 9 AM (10 AM is the absolute latest), after an 8 to 12 hour overnight fast (do not fast longer than 12 hours), to capture the natural cortisol peak. The standard first-line check of how your adrenal glands are working, used to investigate unexplained fatigue, stubborn hair shedding, or androgen-driven hair loss in women.
£299
About this panel
When fatigue, weight changes, mood symptoms or hair shedding persist despite normal thyroid and iron results, the adrenal axis is the next sensible place to look. The Adrenal Function Panel measures morning cortisol (the standard test of glucocorticoid output) and DHEA-sulfate (the most stable measure of adrenal androgen production), interpreted together by a GMC-registered clinician with full written commentary. Two practical points matter before booking. First, fasting is essential: an 8 to 12 hour overnight fast, water only, before the draw, and no longer than 12 hours. Second, morning timing is critical: cortisol follows a strong daily rhythm and is highest in the first hour after waking. Bloods must be drawn between 8 and 9 AM (10 AM is the absolute latest, earlier is better) after a normal night's sleep, with no coffee, smoking, or vigorous exercise in the hour before. A draw outside this window will not give an accurate cortisol result.
Who this panel is for
- You've had persistent fatigue or low energy with normal thyroid and iron results
- You're a woman investigating scalp hair thinning where androgens may be a driver
- You've noticed central weight gain, mood changes, or sleep disturbance and want to rule out cortisol issues
- You want to identify whether the source of androgen excess is adrenal or ovarian
- You want a baseline before starting DHEA supplementation or hormonal therapy
What's measured
Every biomarker is measured by a UKAS-accredited laboratory and interpreted by a GMC-registered doctor in the context of your overall results.
Cortisol (morning serum)
Standard first-line test of HPA-axis function, drawn 8-9 AM
DHEA-sulfate (DHEAS)
Most stable single marker of adrenal androgen output
Total testosterone
Adds context to androgen excess work-up (where indicated)
SHBG
Sex hormone binding globulin, calculates free testosterone fraction
Ready to investigate?
£299 · Cortisol returned within 4 hours of your appointment. DHEAS and total testosterone returned within 24 hours. SHBG can take up to 48 hours (clinician then interprets the result before release)
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about the Adrenal Function Panel. Have a question we haven't answered? Get in touch.
How much does the Adrenal Function Panel cost?
£299. This is the all-in price and includes the appointment, every biomarker listed above, and a written clinical review by a GMC-registered doctor. No additional fees for the consultation or report.
How long do Adrenal Function Panel results take?
Cortisol returned within 4 hours of your appointment. DHEAS and total testosterone returned within 24 hours. SHBG can take up to 48 hours (clinician then interprets the result before release). All results are reviewed by a GMC-registered doctor before being released to your secure patient portal.
Do I need to fast for the Adrenal Function Panel?
REQUIRED: 8 to 12 hour overnight fast, water only. Do not fast longer than 12 hours. MORNING TIMING CRITICAL: bloods drawn between 8 and 9 AM (10 AM is the absolute latest, earlier is better), after a normal night's sleep, with no coffee, smoking, or vigorous exercise in the hour before. Cortisol follows a strong daily rhythm and a draw outside this window will not give an accurate result.
Where is the Adrenal Function Panel carried out?
At our private clinic at 134 Harley Street, London W1G 7JY. The nearest tube stations are Regent's Park (5 minutes' walk) and Bond Street (8 minutes' walk). The nearest car park is Q-Park Harley Street (Weymouth Mews).
Do I need a GP referral to book the Adrenal Function Panel?
No. WMG Health offers direct-access blood testing, so you can book online or by phone without a GP referral. Our clinicians review every set of results and will flag anything that requires follow-up.
References and further reading
UK guidance our clinicians use when interpreting results in this category. These pages are not affiliated with WMG Health.
Related panels
Other panels patients commonly consider alongside this one.
Ready to book?
Adrenal Function Panel at our Harley Street clinic. Same-day appointments. Reviewed by a GMC-registered doctor. Cortisol returned within 4 hours of your appointment. DHEAS and total testosterone returned within 24 hours. SHBG can take up to 48 hours (clinician then interprets the result before release).