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Acetazolamideuracnc

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

This test measures the amount of acetazolamide in your urine to monitor drug levels and ensure proper dosing.

Quick summary

{"Acetazolamide is a medication used to treat glaucoma, altitude sickness, and certain types of edema","This urine test checks if the drug is being properly eliminated from your body","The test helps doctors ensure you're receiving the right dose for effective treatment","Results help monitor kidney function and drug efficacy","Abnormal levels may indicate dosing issues or kidney problems"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
16309-7
Short code
ACET-U
Synonyms
acetaZOLAMIDE Ur-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile polypropylene urine container with leak-proof lid
Units
N/A
Ref low
5
Ref high
20
Critical range
— – 30 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–100 years
Method
Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
CPT
80307
SNOMED
373549005
Specimen volume
Minimum 5 mL, preferred 10-15 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The urine acetazolamide test measures how much acetazolamide is present in your urine. Acetazolamide (brand name Diamox) is a prescription diuretic medication that helps reduce fluid buildup in the body. It works by increasing urine production and is commonly used to treat conditions such as glaucoma (to reduce eye pressure), altitude sickness, and certain types of swelling (edema).

This test is typically performed on a urine sample collected over a 24-hour period, though spot urine samples may also be used depending on your doctor's orders. The sample is analyzed in a laboratory to determine the concentration of acetazolamide and its metabolites.

Reference range

Therapeutic range: 5-20 mcg/mL; Toxic level: >20 mcg/mLN/A

Specimen: urine

Collect mid-stream clean-catch urine sample. Avoid contamination with fecal material. Inform laboratory of any current medications or supplements. No fasting required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Monitoring acetazolamide levels in urine helps healthcare providers assess whether the drug is being properly metabolized and eliminated by the kidneys. This is important because: 1) Proper dosing ensures the medication is effective for your condition, 2) The kidneys play a key role in eliminating acetazolamide from the body, so abnormal levels may indicate kidney function issues, 3) Some patients may experience side effects if the drug accumulates to high levels, and 4) The test can help confirm medication compliance.

Abnormally low levels might suggest that the medication is not being taken as prescribed, or that the body is eliminating it too quickly. Abnormally high levels could indicate kidney dysfunction, overdose, or that the dose needs adjustment. Your doctor will interpret these results in the context of your overall health and the condition being treated.

Frequently asked questions

Why do I need this test?
Your doctor may order this test to monitor your acetazolamide treatment, ensure the drug is at therapeutic levels, check how well your kidneys are eliminating the medication, or investigate if you're experiencing side effects related to drug levels.
How is the urine sample collected?
Your doctor will specify the collection method. For a 24-hour urine test, you will collect all urine produced during a 24-hour period in a special container provided by the lab. For a spot urine test, a single urine sample collected at a specific time is sufficient. Follow all collection instructions carefully for accurate results.
Does this test require any special preparation?
Inform your doctor about all medications you're taking, including acetazolamide and other prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements. Continue taking acetazolamide as prescribed unless your doctor instructs otherwise. No fasting is typically required for this test.
What do the results mean?
Your test results will show the concentration of acetazolamide in your urine. Your healthcare provider will interpret these results based on your specific condition, dosage, kidney function, and other factors. Do not interpret results on your own—always discuss them with your doctor.
Are there any risks with this test?
Urine collection for acetazolamide testing is generally safe and non-invasive. There are no significant risks associated with providing a urine sample. If you have concerns about the test, discuss them with your healthcare provider.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - AcetazolamideSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - Acetazolamide, UrineSource
  3. 3
    LOINC - Acetazolamide [Units/volume] in UrineSource

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