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Urine Norepinephrine-to-Creatinine Ratio

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

Measures urine norepinephrine relative to urine creatinine, helping evaluate catecholamine production while accounting for differences in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This urine test helps assess whether norepinephrine production may be unusually high."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110561-8
Short code
Norepineph/Creat Msmt Ur
Synonyms
Norepineph/Creat Msmt 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?

Norepinephrine is a hormone and neurotransmitter made by the adrenal glands and nervous system. This test measures norepinephrine in urine relative to creatinine, a substance used to account for how concentrated the urine is.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be ordered when symptoms suggest excess catecholamine production, such as episodes of severe headache, sweating, rapid heartbeat, or unexplained high blood pressure. It can help evaluate for tumors that produce catecholamines, including pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is tested to determine the amount of norepinephrine and creatinine. The norepinephrine result is then compared with the creatinine result to provide a ratio that is less affected by variations in urine concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions about whether to collect one urine sample or all urine over a specified period, commonly 24 hours. Your clinician may advise avoiding strenuous exercise, stress, nicotine, caffeine, and certain medicines or foods before collection because they can affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine norepinephrine/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a urine catecholamine or metanephrine test?
No. This test specifically measures norepinephrine relative to creatinine. Other urine tests may measure total catecholamines or metanephrines, which are often evaluated when diagnosing catecholamine-producing tumors.
Why is creatinine included?
Urine concentration can vary widely. Dividing norepinephrine by creatinine helps reduce the effect of unusually dilute or concentrated urine on the result.
Do medicines or everyday activities affect the result?
Yes. Stimulants, some blood pressure medicines, nicotine, caffeine, strenuous exercise, stress, and certain foods may affect norepinephrine levels. Do not stop prescribed medicines without medical guidance; ask your clinician how to prepare.
  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