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Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) 24-Hour Urine Rate

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

This test measures how much vitamin C (ascorbic acid) your body excretes in urine over 24 hours. Vitamin C is an important antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.

Quick summary

["Assesses your body’s vitamin C excretion and may help identify deficiencies or unusual metabolic processes."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1905-9
Short code
Vit C 24h Ur-mRate
Synonyms
Vit C 24h Ur-mRate
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 This Test Is Done

Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms of vitamin C deficiency (like fatigue, bleeding gums, or frequent infections) or if you’re taking medications that affect vitamin C levels. It can also help evaluate kidney function or certain metabolic disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for a full 24-hour period, typically starting after midnight and ending the same day the next morning. Drink plenty of water to help flush urine, but avoid foods or supplements that might interfere with results (like vitamin C supplements).

What Happens During the Test

No special preparation is needed beyond collecting urine in a container over the 24-hour period. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your body is losing vitamin C at a rate that could indicate deficiency, kidney issues, or other health concerns. Your doctor will compare these results to your medical history and other tests.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Vitamin C Urine Rate

Frequently asked questions

Is there a normal range for this test?
No standard reference range exists because levels vary widely based on diet, hydration, and health status. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Can diet affect this test?
Yes, high vitamin C intake (e.g., from fruits, supplements) or certain medications may alter results. Follow your doctor’s instructions to avoid interference.
What conditions might require this test?
This test may be used to diagnose vitamin C deficiency, assess kidney function, or evaluate conditions like scurvy, certain metabolic disorders, or chronic kidney disease.
  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