Cortisol, 24-Hour Urinary Free
This test measures the amount of cortisol, a natural steroid hormone, excreted in your urine over a 24-hour period. It helps assess how well your body produces and regulates cortisol, which plays a key role in managing stress and other bodily functions.
["This test helps identify whether your cortisol levels are too high or too low over time."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 77927-2
- Short code
- Cortis 5M p chal SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Cortis 5M p chal SerPl-sCnc
- Category
- hormone
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like frequent urination, unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or mood swings that might suggest hormonal imbalances. It could also be used to diagnose conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome (too much cortisol) or adrenal insufficiency (too little cortisol).
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll need to collect all urine for a full 24-hour period, typically starting after you wake up in the morning and ending just after you wake up the next morning. Store the urine in a refrigerator and bring the entire sample to your lab. Follow any specific instructions your provider gives you to ensure accuracy.
How the Test Works
The test measures cortisol levels in your urine, which reflects your body’s natural production over the day. Unlike blood tests, this method provides a more comprehensive picture of cortisol fluctuations throughout the day.
What the Results Mean
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your symptoms and medical history. Elevated levels might indicate conditions like Cushing’s syndrome, while lower levels could suggest adrenal gland issues or other hormonal disorders. Your provider will discuss these findings with you.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
24-Hour Urine Cortisol
Frequently asked questions
How often is this test typically done?
What should I do if I miss any urine during the collection period?
Can I take medications or supplements that might affect the test results?
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