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JWH-073 Carboxy Metabolite, Creatinine-Normalized — Urine

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

Detects a breakdown product of JWH-073, a synthetic cannabinoid, in urine. Creatinine normalization helps account for differences in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["A positive result indicates prior exposure to JWH-073 but does not by itself determine intoxication or impairment."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
72807-1
Short code
JWH-073 carboxylated/Creat Ur
Synonyms
JWH-073 carboxylated/Creat Ur
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 urine test looks for a carboxy metabolite formed after the body breaks down JWH-073, a chemical in some synthetic cannabinoid products. The result may be adjusted using the urine creatinine level to help account for how concentrated or dilute the sample is.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used when exposure to a synthetic cannabinoid is suspected, such as after workplace or school drug screening, a medical evaluation, or a request from a healthcare professional. It detects a metabolite rather than measuring the active parent compound directly.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected according to the laboratory's instructions and analyzed to identify the JWH-073 carboxy metabolite. The laboratory may also measure creatinine in the same sample and use it to normalize the metabolite result.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory or healthcare professional. Tell the clinician about any products containing cannabinoids or synthetic cannabinoids, supplements, medications, or supplements you have recently used, because these may affect interpretation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

JWH-073 urine metabolite test

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive JWH-073 metabolite result mean?
It indicates prior exposure to JWH-073 or a product containing it. Additional clinical history and other tests may be needed to interpret the result.
Does this test prove that someone was intoxicated?
No. A urine metabolite can remain detectable after the effects of a substance have ended, so it cannot determine current intoxication or driving impairment by itself.
Why is creatinine included?
Urine can vary greatly in concentration. Creatinine normalization helps reduce the effect of differences in urine concentration when the JWH-073 metabolite result is interpreted.
  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