Skip to content

Plasma Clonidine Concentration (24-Hour Urine Collection)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of clonidine, a medication used to lower blood pressure, in your urine over a 24-hour period. It helps assess how well your body is processing the drug.

Quick summary

["Clonidine levels in urine can indicate proper medication absorption and kidney function."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73432-7
Short code
cloNIDine ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
Synonyms
cloNIDine ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
Category
hematology
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
flow-cytometry
CPT
82784
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking clonidine to manage high blood pressure. It helps check if the medication is working as intended or if adjustments are needed. Sometimes, it’s used to evaluate kidney function or drug metabolism in certain conditions.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for 24 hours in a special container. Start and end times are usually marked on the container. Follow any specific instructions your provider gives you, such as avoiding certain foods or medications that might affect results.

How the Test Is Performed

The test involves collecting urine over 24 hours. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using a sensitive method to detect clonidine in your urine.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if clonidine is being processed correctly in your body. Abnormally high or low levels may signal issues with medication effectiveness, kidney function, or other health concerns.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clonidine urine tests are important for monitoring long-term blood pressure control and ensuring proper drug metabolism. High levels might indicate poor kidney function or improper dosing, while low levels could suggest the body is metabolizing the drug too quickly.

Short name

Clonidine Urine Test

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get the results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
What does a high or low clonidine level mean?
A high level may suggest kidney problems or improper medication dosing. A low level could mean the drug is being processed too quickly, though this is less common for clonidine.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
No, avoid alcohol before the test as it may affect urine clarity or drug metabolism, potentially altering results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy