Skip to content

Metanephrine and Creatinine, Urine

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

Measures metanephrine, a breakdown product of stress hormones, in urine. Creatinine may be included to help interpret the metanephrine result.

Quick summary

["This urine test helps evaluate whether the body may be producing excess catecholamines."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
9645-3
Short code
Metaneph/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Metaneph/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 test measures metanephrine in urine. Metanephrines are metabolites of catecholamines, such as epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine. Urinary creatinine may be measured or used as a comparison to account for differences in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be ordered if symptoms suggest excess catecholamine production, such as episodes of severe headache, sweating, rapid heartbeat, or high blood pressure. It is commonly used in the evaluation of pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas, tumors that make catecholamines.

How is the test performed?

Urine is collected either as a single sample or over a 24-hour period, depending on the laboratory's instructions. The sample is analyzed to determine the amount of metanephrine present, and it may also be compared with urine creatinine.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional or laboratory. Some medicines, foods, nicotine, caffeine, alcohol, and physical activity can affect results, so tell the ordering clinician about these factors and ask whether any medication or dietary changes are needed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine metanephrine test

Frequently asked questions

What does a urine metanephrine test measure?
It measures metanephrine, a breakdown product of catecholamine stress hormones, in urine. Creatinine may be included to help account for variations in urine concentration.
Why is this test used?
It may be used to evaluate symptoms of excess catecholamine production, including episodic headache, sweating, palpitations, or high blood pressure. It is commonly part of the evaluation for pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas.
Can medications or foods affect the result?
Yes. Certain medicines, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, some foods, stress, and physical activity can influence metanephrine levels. Do not stop or change medicines without instructions from your 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