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Dopamine Plasma Concentration (24-Hour Urine Collection)

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

This test measures the amount of dopamine, a chemical messenger in your body, collected over 24 hours in your urine. Dopamine helps regulate blood pressure and other bodily functions.

Quick summary

["Understanding your dopamine levels may help assess certain heart or kidney conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
78190-6
Short code
MV lat ann E-wave/e-prime Vmax DOP+TDI
Synonyms
MV lat ann E-wave/e-prime Vmax DOP+TDI
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.8
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
us-doppler-tissue-doppler
CPT
85610
SNOMED
396252006
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

Doctors may order a 24-hour dopamine urine test to check for conditions like high blood pressure (hypertension), heart problems, or kidney issues. It can also help diagnose or monitor certain cancers or other metabolic disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for 24 hours, starting and ending at the same time each day. Keep the sample refrigerated and bring it all to the lab on the next scheduled visit. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

How the Test Is Performed

No special preparation is needed beyond collecting urine in a sterile container over 24 hours. The lab processes the sample to measure dopamine levels.

Possible Results and Interpretation

Results are compared to standard ranges, though exact values can vary by lab. High dopamine levels may indicate certain cancers or kidney disease, while low levels could signal heart or neurological conditions. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: serum

Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

24-Hour Dopamine Urine

Frequently asked questions

What does a dopamine urine test tell your doctor?
This test helps evaluate conditions like pheochromocytoma (a tumor affecting hormone production), kidney disease, or heart-related disorders. It may also support diagnosis of dopamine-related metabolic disorders.
How long will I need to wait for results?
Results typically take 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will contact you once they are ready.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
Alcohol may not affect dopamine levels directly, but it’s best to avoid it for 24 hours before collection to prevent potential interference with urine clarity or sample integrity.
  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