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Urinary cotinine mass concentration (24-hour collection)

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

This test measures the amount of cotinine, a metabolite of nicotine, in your urine over a full day. It helps assess exposure to tobacco smoke or nicotine use.

Quick summary

["This test can help track nicotine exposure, especially in cases of secondhand smoke exposure or nicotine dependence."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
33916-8
Short code
trans-3-OH-cotinine Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
trans-3-OH-cotinine Ur-mCnc
Category
chemistry
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

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate exposure to nicotine or tobacco smoke, particularly in children, pregnant individuals, or those suspected of secondhand smoke exposure. It can also be used in research or clinical studies to monitor nicotine levels in urine over a 24-hour period.

How Is the Sample Collected?

You’ll collect all urine produced in a 24-hour period in a special container. The container is typically provided by your healthcare team. The sample is then sent to a lab for testing.

What Does the Test Measure?

Cotinine is a breakdown product of nicotine, which is the active ingredient in tobacco. Detecting cotinine in urine helps determine how much nicotine you’ve been exposed to, whether from smoking, vaping, or secondhand smoke.

What Are Common Uses?

This test is often used in pediatric care to check for secondhand smoke exposure in children, in workplace or environmental studies to assess nicotine exposure, and in clinical settings to monitor nicotine dependence or treatment progress.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Urine Cotinine

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the lab’s processing time and your healthcare provider’s follow-up schedule.
What does a high cotinine level mean?
A high cotinine level suggests significant exposure to nicotine, likely from smoking or vaping. Your provider may use this information to recommend steps to reduce exposure or support smoking cessation efforts.
Can I drink alcohol before the test?
Alcohol does not interfere with cotinine testing, but you should follow your provider’s instructions about other medications or dietary restrictions, if any.
  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