Cotinine - Smoker's Nicotine

Nicotine and Cotinine Tests

These tests measure the amount of cotinine in your urine. Cotinine is a chemical your body makes after you are exposed to nicotine. Measuring cotinine is better than measuring nicotine because nicotine disappears from your system within a few hours, but cotinine remains for a day or more.

Why do I need this test?

You may have this test to measure your progress in a program to quit smoking. This test can also help your healthcare provider figure out the right dose for a nicotine patch to help you stop smoking.

You may need to take a cotinine test if you're applying for a job at a company that prohibits smoking. Some insurance companies may require this test as part of a health exam before approving a policy. This test is also done to check for nicotine poisoning.