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Epinephrine/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

This urine test measures epinephrine relative to creatinine, which helps account for differences in urine concentration. It may be used to help evaluate symptoms suggesting excess catecholamine production.

Quick summary

["The test compares urine epinephrine with creatinine to help assess catecholamine excretion while adjusting for urine concentration."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
33874-9
Short code
Epineph/Creat ?Tm Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Epineph/Creat ?Tm Ur-sRto
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 the amount of epinephrine, a hormone made by the adrenal glands, relative to the amount of creatinine in your urine. Creatinine is used as a marker of urine concentration so the epinephrine result can be interpreted more reliably.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be ordered when symptoms such as episodic headaches, sweating, rapid heartbeat, or blood pressure changes suggest possible excess catecholamine production. It is sometimes used as part of an evaluation for tumors that produce epinephrine, including pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and tested in the laboratory. If a 24-hour collection is requested, you will need to collect all urine for the specified period and record the total volume. The laboratory then reports epinephrine relative to creatinine.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the urine-collection instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory. Your clinician may advise you to avoid caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, strenuous exercise, and certain medicines or foods beforehand, because they can affect epinephrine or catecholamine measurements. Do not stop prescribed medicines without medical advice.

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/creatinine ratio show?
It shows how much epinephrine is present relative to creatinine, helping normalize the result for differences in urine concentration.
Is this the same as a urine catecholamine test?
It is related but more specific because it focuses on epinephrine. Some laboratory panels also measure other catecholamines or metanephrines.
Can medicines or foods affect the result?
Yes. Caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, strenuous exercise, and some medicines may affect epinephrine or related measurements. Follow your clinician's preparation instructions and ask before changing any treatment.
  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