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PABA (p-Aminobenzoic Acid) in Urine

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

This test measures the presence of p-Aminobenzoic Acid (PABA) in your urine, which may help assess how well your body absorbs certain medications or supplements containing PABA.

Quick summary

["PABA levels can indicate absorption issues or metabolic processes in your body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
35504-0
Short code
pABA 6h p BT PO 6h MFr Ur
Synonyms
pABA 6h p BT PO 6h MFr Ur
Category
chemistry
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 p-Aminobenzoic Acid?

PABA is a naturally occurring compound found in some foods and supplements. It plays a role in the synthesis of certain vitamins and may also help support skin health. In this test, PABA is measured in your urine to evaluate its excretion and potential absorption status.

Why Might This Test Be Ordered?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you are taking medications or supplements containing PABA, such as certain antibiotics or hair dyes. It can help determine how well these substances are absorbed by your body or if there are any metabolic issues affecting their processing.

What Does the Result Mean?

Results may be qualitative (present or absent) or quantitative, depending on the clinical context. Elevated levels could suggest abnormal excretion or metabolic pathways, while lower levels might indicate reduced absorption.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Abnormal results could be linked to dietary intake, medication use, or underlying metabolic conditions. For example, certain antibiotics or supplements containing PABA may temporarily alter urine levels.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Urine PABA

Frequently asked questions

How is this test used in clinical practice?
This test is primarily used to monitor the absorption and metabolism of PABA-containing medications or supplements. It may also be part of broader evaluations for conditions affecting urinary excretion or vitamin metabolism, though it is not a standard diagnostic tool for most health conditions.
What preparation is needed before this test?
No special preparation is typically required, but you may be advised to avoid certain medications or supplements containing PABA for a few days before testing. Drink plenty of water to ensure a well-diluted urine sample.
What type of specimen is collected for this test?
A urine sample is collected, often as part of a 24-hour urine collection or a random sample depending on the clinical context.
  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