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Urine Creatinine

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

A urine test that measures creatinine concentration. It helps assess urine concentration and may be used to calculate the amount of certain substances excreted over time.

Quick summary

["Urine creatinine helps show how concentrated a urine sample is and can be used to calculate daily excretion of other substances."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
80176-1
Short code
SAH/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
SAH/Creat Ur-sRto
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 made by the muscles and filtered by the kidneys. This test measures the amount of creatinine in a urine sample.

Why might I need this test?

Urine creatinine may be used to check how concentrated the urine is. It can also help calculate the amount of a substance, such as protein or sodium, that passes into the urine over a 24-hour period.

How is the test performed?

You provide a urine sample as directed by your healthcare professional. The laboratory measures the creatinine concentration, and results may be compared with urine volume, other urine tests, or blood creatinine results.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided with the test order. For a timed collection, collect all urine for the specified period and record the start and end times. Do not change your fluid intake or exercise level unless your clinician tells you to.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine creatinine

Frequently asked questions

Is urine creatinine the same as a blood creatinine test?
No. Blood creatinine estimates kidney filtering function, while urine creatinine measures how much creatinine is present in the urine. Your clinician may order both and compare the results.
Why is urine creatinine included with a 24-hour urine test?
The creatinine value helps account for differences in urine concentration and can be used to calculate the total amount of another substance excreted during the collection period.
Does drinking a lot of water lower urine creatinine?
It can dilute the urine and lower the measured concentration. Changes in fluid intake, exercise, diet, and muscle mass can also affect the result, so follow any preparation instructions provided.
  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