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Urinary Norepinephrine-to-Creatinine Ratio

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

A urine test that measures norepinephrine relative to creatinine, helping evaluate whether symptoms may be caused by excess catecholamine production.

Quick summary

["An elevated ratio can suggest an adrenal or other catecholamine-producing tumor, but temporary stress, illness, and medications can also raise it."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13782-8
Short code
Norepineph/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Norepineph/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 the amount of norepinephrine in urine compared with the amount of creatinine in the same sample. Creatinine is used as a reference to account for differences in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered for symptoms such as episodes of headache, sweating, rapid heartbeat, palpitations, or unexplained blood pressure changes. These symptoms can have many causes, and the result is usually interpreted with other tests and your medical history.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected as directed by your clinician, and the laboratory measures norepinephrine and creatinine in the sample. Your clinician will determine whether a single urine collection or a 24-hour collection is appropriate.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's collection instructions carefully. Tell the laboratory about medicines, supplements, caffeine, smoking, recent illness, and strenuous exercise, as these can affect the result; do not stop prescribed medication without medical advice.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Norepinephrine/Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

Does this test diagnose a catecholamine-producing tumor?
No. An abnormal result suggests increased norepinephrine production but can have several causes, so it must be interpreted with symptoms, medication use, and other laboratory findings.
Is a 24-hour urine collection required?
Not always. Some clinicians use a single urine sample, while others request a 24-hour collection; follow the specific instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory.
What can affect the urine norepinephrine result?
Stress, illness, exercise, caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and certain medications or supplements may raise or otherwise alter results. Inform the care team about these factors before testing.
  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