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Creatinine, 24-Hour Urine, Total

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

Measures the total amount of creatinine released in urine over 24 hours, which can help assess muscle metabolism and the completeness of a urine collection.

Quick summary

["This test quantifies daily urinary creatinine and can help evaluate muscle metabolism and urine collection completeness."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
56966-5
Short code
PETN/Creat 24h Ur-Rto
Synonyms
PETN/Creat 24h Ur-Rto
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?

Creatinine is a waste product formed as your muscles break down and are filtered by the kidneys. This test measures the total amount of creatinine passed in urine during a 24-hour collection.

Why might I need this test?

A 24-hour urine creatinine test may be used to assess muscle metabolism, evaluate kidney function together with other tests, or determine whether a urine collection captured all of the urine produced during the collection period.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine for exactly 24 hours in the container provided by the laboratory. The laboratory measures the creatinine concentration and uses the total collected urine volume to calculate the amount excreted during the day.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions, including the start and end times and any storage or refrigeration requirements. Do not change your diet, activity, or medication use unless your healthcare professional specifically asks you to.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-hour urine creatinine

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast for this test?
Fasting is generally not required, but your clinician may give special diet instructions for the collection period. Follow the laboratory's directions exactly.
What if I miss part of the 24-hour urine collection?
Tell the laboratory, because a missed collection can make the total amount appear inaccurate. You may need to repeat the test under their guidance.
Can I take my usual medicines during collection?
Usually, continue prescribed medicines unless your clinician tells you otherwise. Some medicines and supplements can affect the result, so provide the laboratory with a complete list.
  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