24-Hour Urine Collection for Free Cortisol
This test measures the amount of cortisol (a natural steroid hormone) excreted in your urine over a full 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 doctors check if your body produces too much or too little cortisol over time."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 20622-7
- Short code
- Cortis 24h Ur-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Cortis 24h Ur-mCnc
- Category
- hormone
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 recommend this test if they suspect hormonal imbalances, such as Cushing’s syndrome (where cortisol levels are too high) or adrenal gland problems (where cortisol levels are too low). It can also be used to monitor treatment for conditions affecting cortisol production.
How the Test Works
You’ll need to collect all urine for a full 24-hour period, typically starting and ending at the same time each day. Your healthcare provider will give you instructions on how to properly collect and store the urine samples. The collected urine is then tested for cortisol levels.
Sample Collection Process
To prepare, you’ll likely receive a special container or instructions to mix all urine from your 24-hour period. Avoid certain foods, medications, or activities that might affect cortisol levels (like caffeine or stress). Return the collected urine to your doctor’s office or lab promptly for testing.
What to Expect After the Test
After submitting your urine sample, you’ll typically receive results within a few days. Your doctor will review the results and discuss them with you during a follow-up visit. Results may be compared to your baseline or other tests to determine if further action is needed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Free Cortisol Urine Test
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can I eat or drink anything before the 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