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Potassium-to-Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

Measures the amount of potassium relative to creatinine in urine, helping evaluate potassium loss and kidney function.

Quick summary

["This urine test can help identify excessive potassium loss and guide evaluation of low blood potassium levels."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
33949-9
Short code
Potassium/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Potassium/Creat Ur-sRto
Category
kidney
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
3.5
Ref high
5
Critical range
2.5 N/A – 6.5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84132
SNOMED
110742001
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 potassium and creatinine in a urine sample and calculates the potassium-to-creatinine ratio. Creatinine helps account for how concentrated the urine is.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order it when you have low blood potassium, unexplained symptoms, or possible kidney-related electrolyte loss. It can also help assess how your kidneys handle potassium.

How is the test performed?

You provide a urine sample, usually from a single collection, and the laboratory measures its potassium and creatinine levels. The results are used to calculate the ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow any collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional. Tell the laboratory about medicines or supplements that may affect your potassium levels, and ask whether a timed collection is required.

Reference range

Adult: 3.5-5.0 mmol/LN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Potassium-to-Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

Does this test diagnose a specific condition?
No. It provides information about urinary potassium loss and is interpreted with blood tests, symptoms, medical history, and other kidney evaluations.
What if my urine potassium-to-creatinine ratio is high?
It may mean your kidneys are losing more potassium than expected, although diet and certain medicines can also raise the result. Your clinician will interpret it in the context of your overall health.
Can medicines or supplements affect the result?
Yes. Diuretics, certain blood pressure medicines, corticosteroids, and potassium supplements can affect urinary potassium levels. Do not change prescribed medicines without medical advice.
  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