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Glucose, 24-Hour Urinary Excretion (Total)

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

This test measures the total amount of glucose found in your urine over a 24-hour period. It helps assess how much glucose your body is losing through urine, which can be important for managing conditions like diabetes.

Quick summary

["This test helps track how well your kidneys are handling glucose and supports diabetes management."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47759-6
Short code
GH 15M p Ins IV SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
GH 15M p Ins IV SerPl-aCnc
Category
hormone
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Doctors may order a 24-hour urine glucose test if you have diabetes or are at risk for it. It can also be used to check how well your kidneys are filtering glucose from your blood, especially if you have kidney disease or other health conditions that affect how your body processes sugar.

How the Test Works

You’ll collect all urine for a full 24-hour period in a special container. The test measures the total glucose excreted in your urine, which reflects how much glucose your body is passing through your kidneys.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed beyond collecting all urine for the full 24-hour period. Drink plenty of water to help flush out glucose, but avoid excessive sugar intake before testing.

What to Expect During the Test

You’ll provide a single urine sample at the end of the 24-hour period, which is then analyzed in the lab to determine the total glucose excreted.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Urine Glucose

Frequently asked questions

What does a high result mean?
A high result may indicate that your kidneys are not effectively reabsorbing glucose back into your bloodstream, which can happen with diabetes or kidney problems. It may also suggest poor blood sugar control if glucose is consistently spilling into urine.
What does a low result mean?
A low result suggests that your body is effectively reabsorbing glucose from your urine, which is typical in healthy individuals without significant kidney or diabetes-related issues. However, very low results might warrant further investigation to rule out conditions affecting glucose metabolism.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health condition. For people with diabetes, it may be done periodically to monitor kidney function and glucose control, often alongside other tests like hemoglobin A1c.
  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