Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)
A blood test that checks your blood sugar, body salts (electrolytes) and how well your kidneys are working.
Quick Summary
To check kidney function, blood sugar and the balance of salts and fluid in your body.
Glucose, calcium, sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, chloride, urea (BUN) and creatinine.
You may be asked to fast (nothing to eat or drink except water) for 8–12 hours. Follow your doctor's or lab's instructions.
Overview
A basic metabolic panel (BMP) is a group of eight blood tests done on one sample. In India, parts of it are often ordered as kidney function tests (KFT or RFT) and blood sugar tests.
It's used in routine check-ups, to monitor conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and kidney disease, and to check the effects of some medicines.
The results give a quick picture of how well your kidneys are filtering, whether your blood sugar is in range and whether your body's salts are balanced.
What It Measures
Glucose
The amount of sugar in your blood. High levels can be a sign of diabetes.
Sodium, potassium, chloride and bicarbonate
Electrolytes that keep fluids, nerves and muscles, including the heart, working properly.
Calcium
Needed for bones, nerves, muscles and the heart.
Urea (BUN) and creatinine
Waste products the kidneys remove. Higher levels can mean the kidneys aren't working as well.
How It's Performed
- 01
Preparation
Fast if you've been asked to. Take your usual medicines unless told otherwise.
- 02
Blood sample
Blood is taken from a vein in your arm with a thin needle.
- 03
Afterwards
Eat and drink as normal once the sample is taken. A small bruise is common.
Reference Ranges
Note: Normal ranges vary by laboratory. Consult your report for the specific reference used.
| Parameter | Typical Range (Adult) | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Fasting glucose | 70–99 | mg/dL |
| Sodium | 135–145 | mmol/L |
| Potassium | 3.5–5.0 | mmol/L |
| Creatinine | 0.6–1.3 | mg/dL |
| Urea nitrogen (BUN) | 7–20 | mg/dL |
| Calcium | 8.5–10.2 | mg/dL |
Interpreting Results & Next Steps
Discuss with Doctor
Your doctor will look at the results together and may repeat a test, since things like dehydration or a recent meal can affect them. Normal ranges differ between laboratories, ages and sexes; always use the range printed on your report and ask your doctor what your results mean.
If values are Low:
Low sodium or potassium can be caused by some medicines, vomiting, diarrhoea or hormone problems. Low glucose can cause shakiness and confusion.
If values are High:
High glucose may suggest diabetes. High creatinine or urea can mean reduced kidney function or dehydration. High potassium can affect the heart and may need quick attention.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Basic metabolic panel (BMP)(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Blood tests(opens in a new tab) · NHS