Cotinine in urine (24-hour collection)
This test measures the amount of cotinine, a metabolite of nicotine, in your urine over a full day. It helps assess long-term exposure to tobacco smoke or nicotine.
["This test checks for recent nicotine exposure from smoking or vaping over a 24-hour period."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 111226-7
- Short code
- Cotinine Msmt Ur
- Synonyms
- Cotinine Msmt Ur
- Category
- chemistry
- 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 healthcare provider may order this test if you’re suspected of smoking or vaping, especially if you’re pregnant, have concerns about addiction, or are in a treatment program for nicotine dependence. It can also be used to monitor compliance with smoking cessation programs or to detect secondhand smoke exposure.
What to Expect Before the Test
For a 24-hour urine collection, you’ll typically start by collecting your first urine sample in the morning. You’ll then collect all urine for the next 23 hours, storing it in a refrigerator. Bring the entire sample to your lab on the following morning. Avoid smoking, vaping, or consuming nicotine products during this time.
What to Expect During the Test
No special preparation is needed beyond following the collection instructions. The lab will analyze the urine sample to measure cotinine levels.
What the Results Mean
Higher levels of cotinine in urine generally indicate recent exposure to nicotine. However, results can vary based on factors like smoking habits, metabolism, and whether you’re exposed to secondhand smoke. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Cotinine levels are a reliable marker for nicotine exposure because they persist in the body longer than nicotine itself. Elevated levels can confirm smoking or vaping, support addiction treatment plans, or identify secondhand smoke exposure. It’s important to discuss results with your provider to understand their implications for your health or treatment plan.
Short name
24-Hour Urine Cotinine
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my results?
What does a ‘positive’ result mean?
Can I still smoke or vape while waiting for my 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