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24-Hour Urinary Hippuric Acid (Hippurate) Measurement

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the amount of hippuric acid excreted in your urine over a 24-hour period. Hippuric acid is a compound formed in the liver from the breakdown of benzoic acid, often linked to metabolism and detoxification processes.

Quick summary

["Assessing how efficiently your body processes certain substances through urine."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
45385-2
Short code
Hippurate Cry #/area UrnS LPF
Synonyms
Hippurate Cry #/area UrnS LPF
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
3.5
Ref high
7.2
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
microscopy-light-lpf
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 to evaluate liver function, detect metabolic disorders, or investigate conditions affecting how your body processes toxins or medications. It can also help monitor kidney function indirectly by observing hippurate excretion.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically required. You’ll collect all urine produced in a 24-hour period (from one full wake-up to the next) in a container provided by your lab. Drink plenty of fluids to ensure adequate urine volume.

During the Test Process

You’ll provide a complete 24-hour urine sample, which is then analyzed in the lab. The test measures hippuric acid concentration in your urine, often compared to standard reference values for healthy individuals.

What the Results Mean

Results may indicate whether your liver is processing substances efficiently, or if there are issues with metabolism or kidney function. Abnormal levels could signal underlying health concerns that need further evaluation.

Reference range

NCBI: Uric Acid Male 3.5-7.2 mg/dL; Female 2.5-6.8 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

What does my hippuric acid level tell me about my health?
Hippuric acid levels can reflect liver metabolism and detoxification capacity. Elevated levels might suggest impaired liver function or certain metabolic conditions, while very low levels could indicate issues with benzoic acid metabolism or kidney excretion. Your provider will discuss any deviations from expected ranges and recommend next steps, such as additional tests or lifestyle adjustments.
How often should I get this test?
This test is usually ordered as needed, depending on your symptoms, medical history, or specific health concerns. Your healthcare provider will determine the frequency based on your individual care plan.
Can I take medications or supplements before this test?
Generally, you should avoid certain medications or supplements that may interfere with hippuric acid levels (e.g., some liver-supportive supplements or certain antibiotics). Always follow your provider’s instructions or lab guidelines to ensure accurate results.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy