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24-Hour Free Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Urine Rate

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the amount of a natural hormone called dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) excreted in your urine over a 24-hour period. DHEA is produced by your adrenal glands and plays a role in hormone balance, energy levels, and stress response.

Quick summary

["Assesses adrenal hormone production over time for potential hormonal imbalances."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
25391-4
Short code
DHEA 24h Ur-sRate
Synonyms
DHEA 24h Ur-sRate
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
135
Ref high
980
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82626
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 have symptoms like fatigue, low energy, or hormonal imbalances that could be linked to adrenal gland function. It may also be used to monitor conditions such as adrenal insufficiency or to check for hormonal disorders like Cushing’s syndrome or hyperandrogenism.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for a full 24-hour period. Typically, you’ll start by emptying your bladder at the beginning of the test and then collect every urine sample in a container until you’ve completed the 24 hours. Some labs may provide a 24-hour urine collection kit to make it easier.

What Happens During the Test

No special preparation is required beyond collecting urine over 24 hours. The collected urine is sent to a lab for analysis. The lab will measure the total amount of DHEA excreted in your urine, which helps determine your adrenal hormone levels.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to reference ranges specific to your age, sex, and overall health. Abnormal results may indicate conditions affecting adrenal function or hormone production, prompting further medical evaluation.

Reference range

NCBI: DHEA-S Male 135-980 µg/dL; Female 30-260 µg/dLN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24h DHEA Urine Rate

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal DHEA urine rates?
Abnormal results can be due to various factors, including adrenal gland disorders (such as Addison’s disease or Cushing’s syndrome), certain medications, or genetic conditions affecting hormone production. Symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or hormonal imbalances often prompt this test.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 2 weeks after the urine sample is submitted to the lab, depending on the lab’s processing time and your healthcare provider’s follow-up schedule.
Can I take medications before the test?
Some medications, especially those affecting hormone levels, may influence results. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, or treatments you’re taking before starting the test.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy