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Norepinephrine and Creatinine, Urine

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

This test measures norepinephrine and creatinine in urine. Creatinine helps account for differences in urine concentration when interpreting the norepinephrine result.

Quick summary

["The test helps evaluate catecholamine production and may be used to investigate unexplained hypertension or related symptoms."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
24523-3
Short code
Norepineph/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Norepineph/Creat Ur-sRto
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 urine test measures norepinephrine, a chemical involved in the body's stress response and blood-pressure regulation, along with creatinine. Creatinine is used to help account for how concentrated the urine is.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when hypertension is severe, unexplained, or accompanied symptoms such as episodes of headache, sweating, palpitations, or anxiety. It can also help assess whether the body is producing increased amounts of catecholamines.

How is the test performed?

Urine is collected in a laboratory-provided container and analyzed for norepinephrine and creatinine. Depending on the order, collection may be a single sample or a timed collection over a specified period, such as 24 hours.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions exactly, including the time and duration of collection. Tell your clinician about medicines, caffeine, nicotine, alcohol use, illness, and strenuous activity, because these can affect the result; do not stop prescribed medicines without medical advice.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Norepinephrine and Creatinine

Frequently asked questions

Does this test diagnose a catecholamine-secreting tumor?
No. An abnormal result can suggest increased catecholamine production, but it must be interpreted with other findings and may need repeat testing or additional studies.
Why is creatinine measured with urine norepinephrine?
Creatinine helps show how concentrated the urine is. This allows the laboratory to better compare norepinephrine levels between samples or during a timed collection.
Can medicines or caffeine affect the result?
Yes. Certain medicines, caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, stress, and strenuous exercise may affect urine norepinephrine levels. Ask the ordering clinician how to prepare and do not change prescribed treatment on your own.
  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