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Epinephrine/Creatinine [Mass Ratio] in Urine

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

A urine test that compares epinephrine with creatinine to help evaluate catecholamine release while accounting for urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This test helps determine whether an elevated urine epinephrine level may reflect increased catecholamine production or simply concentrated urine."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110511-3
Short code
Epineph/Creat Msmt Ur
Synonyms
Epineph/Creat Msmt Ur
Category
kidney
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

What is this test?

This test measures epinephrine, a hormone made by the adrenal glands and other tissues, in urine. It compares the amount of epinephrine with the amount of creatinine in the same urine sample, creating an epinephrine-to-creatinine ratio.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be used when symptoms suggest excessive catecholamine release, such as episodes of severe headache, sweating, rapid heartbeat, or high blood pressure. It can also help evaluate adrenal gland function or suspected hormone-producing tumors.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and tested to measure epinephrine and creatinine. The laboratory then calculates their ratio. Depending on your clinician's instructions, the sample may be a single urine collection or part of a timed collection.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory. Your clinician may advise avoiding caffeine, nicotine, strenuous exercise, and stress before collection, but do not stop medicines unless specifically instructed to do so.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine epinephrine/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does the epinephrine-to-creatinine ratio show?
It shows the amount of epinephrine in urine relative to creatinine. Creatinine helps account for variations in urine concentration, making the ratio useful when interpreting the epinephrine result.
Does an abnormal result mean I have a tumor?
No. An elevated result can have several causes and does not by itself diagnose a tumor. Your clinician will consider your symptoms, medicines, collection conditions, and other tests.
Can I take my medicines before this test?
Continue taking medicines unless your clinician tells you to stop them. Some medicines can affect the result, so tell the healthcare professional ordering the test about all medicines, supplements, caffeine use, and nicotine use.
  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