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24-Hour Urinary Metanephrines

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

This test measures the amount of certain chemicals called metanephrines in your urine over a 24-hour period. Metanephrines are byproducts of a hormone called norepinephrine, which helps regulate blood pressure and heart rate.

Quick summary

["Helps diagnose conditions affecting your nervous system or blood pressure."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
24688-4
Short code
MR UE
Synonyms
MR UE
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
mr
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

Your doctor may order this test to check for conditions like pheochromocytoma (a rare tumor that can cause high blood pressure) or other nerve-related disorders. It can also help monitor symptoms of existing conditions.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll collect all urine for 24 hours, starting after you wake up in the morning. Store the urine in a refrigerator and return it to your doctor’s office or lab on time. Drink plenty of fluids to help collect a full sample.

How the Test Works

The urine sample is analyzed in a lab to measure the total amount of metanephrines. This helps determine if your body is producing too much or too little of these chemicals.

Possible Results and Interpretation

High levels may suggest conditions like pheochromocytoma or other adrenal gland issues. Low levels might indicate nerve damage or other metabolic problems. Your doctor will discuss results with you based on your symptoms and medical history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Elevated urinary metanephrines are strongly linked to pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma (tumors affecting the adrenal glands or other parts of the nervous system). They can also signal other rare disorders like neuroblastoma in children. Low levels may suggest conditions like diabetic autonomic neuropathy or other nerve dysfunctions.

Short name

24h Urinary Metanephrines

Frequently asked questions

What does a high or low result mean?
A high result often points to a tumor or other adrenal-related issue, but your doctor will review it with you in detail. Low results may need further testing to rule out nerve or metabolic problems.
How often can I expect this test?
This test is usually done once or twice if needed for diagnosis or monitoring. Your doctor will let you know if follow-up tests are required.
Can I drink alcohol before the test?
Alcohol may not affect the test results directly, but it’s best to avoid it for 24 hours before collecting urine to ensure accurate measurements.
  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