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Urea-to-Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

A urine test that compares the amounts of urea and creatinine, often used to help assess protein intake and nutritional status.

Quick summary

["This ratio can provide information about protein intake, protein breakdown, hydration, and kidney function when interpreted with other tests."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110488-4
Short code
Urea/Creat Msmt Ur
Synonyms
Urea/Creat Msmt Ur
Category
kidney
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
7
Ref high
20
Critical range
— – 100 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84520
SNOMED
2739004
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?

The urine urea-to-creatinine ratio compares the amount of urea with the amount of creatinine in a urine sample. Urea is a waste product formed when the body breaks down protein, while creatinine is a waste product related to muscle metabolism and kidney filtering.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used to help evaluate protein intake and the body's use of protein. A clinician may also use it when reviewing hydration, nutritional status, or possible kidney problems.

How is the test performed?

Urea and creatinine are measured in a urine sample, and the laboratory calculates the ratio. The urine may be collected once or over a specified period, depending on the test requested by your clinician.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your clinic, including whether a first-morning or timed urine sample is needed. Tell your clinician about fluid changes, illness, recent intense exercise, and major dietary changes, as these can affect the result.

Reference range

Adult: 7-20 mg/dLN/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 urea/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

Is the urine urea-to-creatinine ratio the same as a urine protein-to-creatinine ratio?
No. The urea-to-creatinine ratio compares urea with creatinine and may reflect protein intake and metabolism. The protein-to-creatinine ratio measures urinary protein and is more commonly used to screen for significant protein loss in the urine.
Does a high result always mean I have kidney disease?
No. The ratio can also be affected by protein intake, hydration, illness, and muscle metabolism. Your clinician will interpret it alongside other kidney tests and your clinical situation.
Do I need to stop taking medications before this test?
Do not stop medications unless your clinician instructs you to do so. Some medicines and supplements can affect urine results, so provide your clinician with a complete medication list.
  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