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Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

A urine test that measures gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) relative to creatinine, helping account for differences in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This ratio compares urinary GABA with creatinine to help evaluate GABA excretion while reducing the effect of urine dilution."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
28593-2
Short code
GABA/Creat Ur-Rto
Synonyms
GABA/Creat Ur-Rto
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?

Gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA, is a signaling molecule in the nervous system. This test measures GABA in urine in relation to creatinine, a substance used as a marker of how concentrated the urine is.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test to assess GABA excretion or investigate symptoms involving the nervous system. It is usually interpreted together with other laboratory findings, medical history, medications, and supplements.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is tested for GABA and creatinine. The laboratory compares the GABA amount with the creatinine amount to calculate the reported ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory, including whether to collect a single urine sample or all urine over a 24-hour period. Tell your clinician about medicines, supplements, and pregnancy, as these may affect interpretation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An abnormal GABA-to-creatinine ratio may reflect changes in GABA metabolism or excretion, but it is not specific for one condition. Results can also be influenced by urine collection timing, kidney function, diet, medications, and supplements, so the clinician should interpret them in the full clinical context.

Short name

Urine GABA/Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does the urine GABA/creatinine ratio measure?
It compares the amount of GABA in urine with the amount of creatinine. Creatinine is included to help reduce the effect of variations in urine concentration.
Is this the same as a blood GABA test?
No. This test uses a urine sample, while a blood GABA test measures GABA in blood. Results from the two tests may not be directly interchangeable.
Can medicines or supplements affect the result?
Yes. Medications, supplements, diet, and collection timing may affect urinary GABA or creatinine. Share relevant products and medicines with the ordering clinician.
  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