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Cotinine in Urine (Quantitative)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the presence of cotinine, a metabolite of nicotine, in your urine. It helps assess recent exposure to tobacco smoke.

Quick summary

["Cotinine levels indicate how much nicotine you’ve recently consumed from smoking or vaping."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
59646-0
Short code
Cotinine Ur Ql Scn
Synonyms
Cotinine Ur Ql Scn
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
screen
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 to monitor tobacco use, especially if you’re trying to quit. It can also help detect secondhand exposure to tobacco smoke in certain settings, like workplace or household environments.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a urine sample in a private area, similar to other urine tests. Avoid drinking alcohol or consuming tobacco products for at least 24 hours before testing if instructed by your provider.

What the Results Mean

Results are interpreted based on your clinical context, such as your smoking history or exposure history. Higher levels suggest recent nicotine exposure, while lower or undetectable levels may indicate abstinence or reduced use.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Elevated cotinine levels can result from smoking, vaping, or secondhand tobacco exposure. If you’ve recently quit, your levels may drop quickly. Other factors, like certain medications or medical conditions, could also affect results, but this is rare.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Cotinine testing is a reliable way to confirm tobacco use, especially when other methods (like saliva or blood tests) are less practical. It’s often used in research, workplace programs, or support programs for quitting smoking. Low levels may encourage continued efforts to reduce exposure, while sustained low levels can signal successful abstinence.

Short name

Urine Cotinine

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab and healthcare provider’s processing times. Follow-up instructions may be provided if your results are outside expected ranges.
Can I drink water before this test?
Yes, you can drink water before the test, but avoid excessive fluid intake that might dilute your urine. Follow any specific instructions your provider gives you, as they may vary slightly.
Is this test covered by insurance?
Whether this test is covered by insurance depends on your specific plan and reason for testing. Check with your insurance provider or healthcare provider for details. Some programs (like smoking cessation support) may include this test as part of their services.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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