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24-Hour Urine Creatinine

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

Measures the total amount of creatinine excreted in urine over 24 hours. It may help assess kidney function and evaluate the completeness of a urine collection.

Quick summary

["This test measures how much creatinine your body releases in urine over one day."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44412-5
Short code
TH-DC/Creat Ur
Synonyms
TH-DC/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?

Creatinine is a waste product produced by the muscles and filtered by the kidneys. This test measures the amount of creatinine collected in urine over a 24-hour period.

Why might I need this test?

A 24-hour urine creatinine test may be used to assess kidney function or measure the excretion of certain substances. It can also help determine whether all urine produced during the collection period was captured.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine for 24 hours in a specially labeled container. The full collection is then sent to the laboratory, where the amount of creatinine is measured and reported for the entire collection.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional, including the start time, container use, storage, and return process. Tell the laboratory if you missed a collection or spilled part of the urine.

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 collect all of my urine for this test?
Yes. This test generally requires collecting every urine sample for the full 24-hour period. Missing a portion can make the result inaccurate.
Can I exercise while completing the collection?
Strenuous exercise can temporarily increase creatinine levels. Ask your healthcare professional whether to avoid vigorous exercise during the collection period.
What if I forget part of the collection?
Tell the healthcare professional or laboratory when the collection is returned. The result may need to be repeated to ensure it is reliable.
  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