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Norketamine and Creatinine, Urine

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

A urine test for norketamine, a ketamine metabolite, with creatinine measurement to help account for differences in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This test can help identify recent exposure to ketamine or related medications."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
72800-6
Short code
Norketamine/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Norketamine/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 urine test measures norketamine, a metabolite formed when the body breaks down ketamine or certain related medicines. Creatinine, a waste product normally passed in urine, may also be measured to help account for how concentrated or diluted the urine sample is.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when ketamine or esketamine use is suspected, when monitoring medication treatment, or as part of a substance-use assessment. It may also be used in occupational, legal, or other drug-testing situations.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected in a sterile container according to the laboratory's instructions. The laboratory analyzes the sample for norketamine and reports the creatinine result or uses it as a comparison for interpreting the norketamine measurement.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory or your clinician. If timed or first-morning collection is requested, be sure to follow those instructions, and tell the laboratory about any ketamine, esketamine, or other medications you have taken.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine norketamine and creatinine

Frequently asked questions

What is norketamine?
Norketamine is a metabolite produced when the body breaks down ketamine or certain related medicines. Its presence in urine can be a marker of recent exposure.
Why is creatinine measured with norketamine?
Urine concentration can vary widely, which can make drug levels harder to interpret. Creatinine provides context about the concentration of the urine sample.
Does a positive norketamine result mean someone misused ketamine?
Not necessarily. A detectable result can follow prescribed ketamine or esketamine treatment as well as unauthorized use, so the healthcare professional should review medications and the clinical situation.
  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