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Cortisol, Urine — Concentration

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

Measures the concentration of cortisol in urine to help evaluate adrenal hormone production and investigate symptoms of excess or insufficient cortisol.

Quick summary

["Urine cortisol can help assess adrenal hormone activity, but results depend on accurate urine collection and timing."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
24965-6
Short code
CT L-spine W contr IT
Synonyms
CT L-spine W contr IT
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ct
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

What is this test?

Cortisol is a steroid hormone made by the adrenal glands. This test measures how much cortisol is present in a urine sample.

Why might I need this test?

Urine cortisol may be used to investigate symptoms suggesting too much cortisol, such as rapid weight gain, muscle weakness, bruising, or high blood pressure. It may also help assess adrenal function or monitor certain corticosteroid treatments.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed to determine its cortisol concentration. Your clinician may request a single sample or a timed collection, such as an overnight collection, depending on the purpose of the test.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's collection instructions carefully, including the collection period and any medication instructions. Fasting is generally not required, but excessive fluid intake around the collection period may dilute the urine and affect interpretation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine cortisol

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast for a urine cortisol test?
Fasting is usually not required, but follow the specific instructions provided by your clinician or testing laboratory.
Why does the timing of urine collection matter?
Cortisol levels vary throughout the day, and urine concentration also varies with fluid intake. Timed collections can make the result easier to interpret.
Can corticosteroid medications affect the result?
Yes. Corticosteroid medications and other hormonal treatments can alter cortisol levels, so tell your clinician about all medications and supplements before testing.
  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