24-Hour Urine Rate of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)
This test measures how much of the brain chemical GABA is excreted in your urine over a 24-hour period. GABA is involved in calming nerve activity and may be studied in conditions affecting brain function.
["Assesses GABA excretion, potentially linked to neurological or metabolic health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 25427-6
- Short code
- GABA 24h Ur-sRate
- Synonyms
- GABA 24h Ur-sRate
- Category
- chemistry
- 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
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms or conditions that could be related to abnormal GABA levels, such as seizures, neurological disorders, or metabolic issues. It may also be used to monitor treatment responses in certain cases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically required beyond collecting a full 24-hour urine sample. You’ll need to collect all urine produced during the day and night in a container provided by your lab.
How the Test Works
Your urine sample is analyzed to determine the amount of GABA present over the 24-hour period. The test measures the substance concentration in your urine, which reflects how much GABA your body is processing.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a reference range specific to the test method used. Abnormal results may suggest conditions affecting GABA metabolism or neurological function, but interpretation depends on clinical context and other test results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated or reduced GABA excretion could indicate underlying neurological disorders, metabolic imbalances, or certain genetic conditions. This test is often used as part of a broader evaluation when symptoms like seizures, mood disorders, or movement issues are present. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized insights.
Short name
GABA Urine Rate
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal GABA levels in urine?
How long does it take to get results?
Can lifestyle changes affect this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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