Zinc, Urine Test
This page explains the zinc, urine test, what it measures, and how to arrange it. A zinc, urine test measures how much zinc is leaving your body in urine over a set period, usually 24 hours. It is ordered when a clinician suspects too little or too much zinc, or wants to check how well zinc is being absorbed and retained.
- Sample type
- urine
- Category
- Vitamin & Mineral
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Price
- $129
- Referral
- Not required
A zinc, urine test measures how much zinc is leaving your body in urine over a set period, usually 24 hours. It is ordered when a clinician suspects too little or too much zinc, or wants to check how well zinc is being absorbed and retained.
What it measures
- Urine zinc concentration — The amount of zinc in the collected urine sample.
- 24-hour zinc excretion — Total zinc passed in urine over a full day, which reflects body stores and losses.
- Creatinine (sometimes included) — A substance used to check whether the urine collection was complete and properly timed.
- Collection volume — Total urine volume, needed to calculate the total amount of zinc excreted.
Who it is for
The test is usually ordered by a clinician evaluating suspected zinc deficiency or excess, poor wound healing, unusual hair loss, or symptoms that may relate to mineral imbalance. It may also be used to monitor people receiving zinc supplements or long-term intravenous nutrition.
Preparation
No fasting is usually required. For a 24-hour collection, you discard the first urine of the day, then collect all urine for the next 24 hours, keeping the container refrigerated or as instructed by the lab.
Results and what they mean
Results are reported as the amount of zinc in the urine, often as micrograms per 24 hours or per gram of creatinine. Reference ranges vary by lab, so your clinician interprets the number alongside your diet, symptoms, and other tests. This is general information, not medical advice; discuss your results with a qualified healthcare professional.
How to order this test
- Choose the test and place a confidential order online.
- Select a certified collection site and pick a time that suits you.
- Have your specimen collected — most draws take only a few minutes.
- Review results in a secure portal, typically within 1–3 days.
Preparation, hours, and pricing vary by site; confirm details directly with the lab before your visit.
Availability by state
Direct-access online ordering for the zinc, urine test is available in most states. It is currently unavailable in 6 states:
Everywhere else you can order confidentially and collect your sample at a certified site. Browse by state →
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast for this test?
Fasting is generally not required. Follow any specific instructions from your lab or clinician.
Why collect urine for 24 hours?
Zinc levels in urine change through the day, so a full-day collection gives a more reliable picture than a single sample.
Can diet affect the result?
Yes. Recent zinc-rich foods or supplements may raise urine zinc, so tell your clinician about your diet and any supplements.
What happens if my result is outside the range?
Your clinician will consider the result with your history and may order other tests. Only a healthcare professional can interpret what it means for you.