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Quinolinate/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

This urine test measures quinolinate relative to creatinine, helping assess metabolism involving niacin (vitamin B3) and vitamin B6.

Quick summary

["The result is interpreted alongside urine creatinine and other findings to help evaluate vitamin-related metabolism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
101992-6
Short code
Quinolinate/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Quinolinate/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?

Quinolinate is a substance formed during tryptophan metabolism, a pathway involved in producing niacin. This test measures the amount of quinolinate in urine relative to the amount of creatinine.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used to help evaluate niacin-related metabolism or vitamin B6 status. It may be considered when symptoms or laboratory findings suggest a nutritional or metabolic problem.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is analyzed in a laboratory, and the quinolinate result is compared with the urine creatinine result to calculate a ratio. No special equipment is needed by the patient.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's instructions for collecting the urine sample, including any timing or amount requirements. Tell the healthcare provider about vitamin supplements, medicines, and other tests that may affect interpretation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urinary Quinolinate/Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a urine creatinine test?
No. Urine creatinine may be measured separately, but this test reports quinolinate relative to creatinine so the result can account for how concentrated the urine sample is.
What does a high quinolinate/creatinine ratio mean?
It may suggest altered niacin or vitamin B6 metabolism, but diet, supplements, medicines, and other health factors can also affect the result. A healthcare professional should interpret it in context.
Do I need to stop taking vitamins before this test?
Do not stop prescribed medicines or supplements unless your healthcare provider tells you to. Inform the laboratory about supplements and medicines because they may affect the result.
  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