24-Hour Urine Free Cortisol
This test measures the total amount of cortisol (a stress hormone) excreted in your urine over a 24-hour period. It helps assess how well your body regulates cortisol levels, which can be important for diagnosing conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or adrenal insufficiency.
["This test helps evaluate your body’s natural cortisol production over time."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 83091-9
- Short code
- Cortis 24h Ur IA-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Cortis 24h Ur IA-sCnc
- Category
- hormone
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if they suspect conditions affecting cortisol production, such as Cushing’s syndrome (too much cortisol) or adrenal gland issues (too little cortisol). It’s also used to monitor treatment responses in certain hormone-related disorders.
How the Test Works
You’ll collect all urine for a full 24-hour period in a special container. The sample is then sent to a lab to measure the total cortisol content, which reflects your body’s natural hormone output over time.
Sample Collection
You’ll need to start collecting urine immediately after waking up and continue until you’ve collected all urine for the next 24 hours. Empty your bladder before starting, then collect every drop in the container. Store the sample at room temperature until you return it to the lab.
What to Expect
No special preparation is needed, but avoid taking certain medications (like some steroids) that could affect cortisol levels before testing. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully for accurate results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated cortisol levels in urine may indicate conditions like Cushing’s syndrome, which can cause weight gain, high blood pressure, or muscle weakness. Low levels could signal adrenal insufficiency, where the body struggles to produce enough cortisol for daily functions. This test helps guide treatment decisions and monitor long-term health.
Short name
24h Urine Free Cortisol
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What does a high or low cortisol level mean?
Can I take supplements or medications before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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