24-Hour Free Cortisol Urine Collection (Substance Concentration)
This test measures the amount of free cortisol (the active form of cortisol) excreted in your urine over a 24-hour period. It helps assess how well your body produces and regulates cortisol, a hormone involved in stress response and metabolism.
["Evaluates cortisol production and adrenal function over a full day’s cycle."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73880-7
- Short code
- Cortisone free 24h Ur-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Cortisone free 24h Ur-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 20
- Ref high
- 400
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82670
- 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 adrenal gland issues, such as Cushing’s syndrome (overproduction of cortisol) or Addison’s disease (underproduction). It can also help diagnose conditions like pituitary tumors or other hormonal imbalances that affect cortisol levels.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll need to collect all urine for a full 24 hours, typically starting after midnight and ending the next midnight. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results. Avoid certain medications or supplements that could affect cortisol levels.
During the Test
You’ll provide a 24-hour urine sample in a special container. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis. No special preparation is needed beyond collecting all urine, including during sleep.
After the Test
Results take time to process and may be reviewed by a specialist. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you, explaining whether your cortisol levels are within expected ranges or if further testing is needed.
Reference range
Premenopausal: 20-400 pg/mL; Postmenopausal: <30 pg/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
24h Free Cortisol Urine
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low result mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I take 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