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Mandelic Acid in Urine (Quantitative)

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

This test measures the amount of mandelic acid, a natural substance produced when your body breaks down certain drugs or toxins. It’s often used to check for exposure to drugs like cocaine or other phenylpropanolamines.

Quick summary

["This test helps detect recent drug use or metabolic processing issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36049-5
Short code
CT Max+Mand
Synonyms
CT Max+Mand
Category
chemistry
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

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if they suspect you’ve used drugs like cocaine, amphetamines, or other phenylpropanolamines. It can also help evaluate conditions affecting how your body processes chemicals, such as certain genetic disorders or liver/kidney function.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a urine sample in a clean container. Avoid drinking excessive water before testing to ensure accurate results.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a reference range for healthy individuals. Elevated levels may indicate recent drug use or metabolic issues. Your doctor will discuss the results with you based on your medical history and symptoms.

Possible Causes of Abnormal Results

High levels of mandelic acid can be linked to recent drug exposure, certain medications, or metabolic disorders. Low levels may suggest normal processing or other underlying conditions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test serves as a non-invasive way to screen for drug use and assess how your body metabolizes substances. It’s particularly useful in clinical settings where rapid drug detection is needed, such as emergency rooms, workplace testing, or monitoring patients with suspected drug-related conditions.

Short name

Urine Mandelic Acid

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result (above reference range) strongly suggests recent exposure to drugs like cocaine or other phenylpropanolamines. Your doctor will review your symptoms and medical history to confirm or explore other causes.
Can diet or other medications affect this test?
While diet generally doesn’t interfere, certain medications (like some antibiotics or stimulants) may influence results. Avoid taking these unless approved by your doctor, as they could affect interpretation.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will contact you once they’re ready to discuss findings.
  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