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Methcathinone/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

A urine test that checks for methcathinone, an illicit stimulant, and may relate the result to urine creatinine.

Quick summary

["A detected methcathinone result can indicate recent exposure, but confirmatory testing may be needed."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
87762-1
Short code
Methcathinone/Creat Ur Cfm
Synonyms
Methcathinone/Creat Ur Cfm
Category
kidney
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
confirm
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 examines urine for methcathinone, a stimulant that is not approved for medical use. A creatinine-adjusted result may be used to help account for how concentrated or dilute the urine sample is.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be ordered for substance-use monitoring, workplace or school screening, or evaluation of suspected drug exposure. It may also be used to follow up a preliminary screening result.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is analyzed in the laboratory for methcathinone. If the initial result is unexpected or needs verification, the laboratory may perform a more specific confirmatory test.

How do I prepare for the test?

Collect the urine sample in the container provided by the laboratory and follow its collection instructions. There is usually no fasting requirement, but you should tell the laboratory about any medications or supplements you have recently taken.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Methcathinone

Frequently asked questions

What is methcathinone?
Methcathinone is an illicit stimulant chemically related to amphetamine and methamphetamine. It is sometimes called bath salts, although many products sold under that name do not actually contain methcathinone.
Does a positive result mean someone used methcathinone?
It may indicate recent exposure, but screening results can be affected by certain medications or other substances. Unexpected results should be confirmed and interpreted together with the clinical context.
Can this test show the exact amount taken or the time of use?
No. Urine testing can detect exposure but generally cannot determine the exact dose or precise time it occurred. Results may also depend on urine concentration, hydration, and sample collection timing.
  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