Cortisol, Salivary, Free, 24-Hour Average
This test measures the amount of free cortisol naturally present in your saliva over a full day. Cortisol is a hormone produced by your adrenal glands that helps regulate stress responses, metabolism, and immune function.
["Assesses your body’s cortisol levels over time to help diagnose or monitor conditions related to stress, hormone imbalances, or adrenal function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 58694-1
- Short code
- Cortis sp7 p chal Sal-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Cortis sp7 p chal Sal-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 Is Done
Salivary cortisol testing is often used to evaluate chronic stress, adrenal gland function, or conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or Addison’s disease. Unlike blood tests, saliva samples are easier to collect without fasting or stressing the body, providing a more natural reflection of cortisol levels throughout the day.
How the Test Works
You’ll collect saliva samples at home over 24 hours, typically in a provided container. The samples are then sent to a lab for analysis. The test measures free (unbound) cortisol, which is more accurate than blood cortisol levels for assessing daily cortisol patterns.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed beyond collecting saliva samples throughout the day. Avoid smoking, caffeine, or eating immediately before collecting samples to ensure accurate results.
What to Expect During the Test
You’ll receive instructions on how to collect saliva samples at home, usually by spitting into a container at regular intervals. The process is simple and painless, with no needles or blood draws required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Salivary cortisol testing helps identify abnormal cortisol levels that may indicate conditions like hypercortisolism (e.g., Cushing’s syndrome) or hypocortisolism (e.g., Addison’s disease). It also supports the diagnosis of chronic stress disorders or adrenal insufficiency by providing a more natural, 24-hour perspective on hormone fluctuations.
Short name
Salivary Cortisol (24-Hour)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What does a low or high salivary cortisol level mean?
Can I take medications before or after collecting saliva samples?
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