Lab test
Nicotine Metabolite Screen, Blood
This blood test measures nicotine and its main metabolite, cotinine, to assess exposure to tobacco or other nicotine products.
- Typical price
- From $159
- Results
- 1-3 business days
- Preparation
- See preparation notes below
- Sample
- Blood draw or sample collection at a local center
About this test
This blood test measures nicotine and its main metabolite, cotinine, to assess exposure to tobacco or other nicotine products. Cotinine is formed as the body breaks down nicotine and stays in the blood longer, making it a useful marker of recent nicotine use. The test can support smoking cessation programs, help evaluate exposure in clinical settings, and detect nicotine from passive exposure. It does not measure harm from smoking; it simply reflects whether nicotine has entered the body.
What this test measures
- Nicotine The parent compound found in tobacco and nicotine replacement products; present briefly after use.
- Cotinine The primary metabolite of nicotine and a longer-lasting marker of recent nicotine exposure.
Who this test may be right for
- People participating in smoking cessation programs
- Individuals whose provider needs to assess nicotine exposure
- Patients being evaluated before certain procedures
- People concerned about secondhand or passive nicotine exposure
Before your visit
- Follow any instructions about avoiding nicotine products before collection
- No fasting is usually required
- Tell the phlebotomist about nicotine replacement products or medications you use
- Report exposure to secondhand smoke, which can also be detected
Understanding your results
A detectable nicotine or cotinine level indicates recent exposure to nicotine, whether from smoking, vaping, smokeless tobacco, nicotine replacement, or secondhand smoke. A very low or undetectable level suggests little recent exposure. Results reflect exposure rather than health effects, and timing matters. Discuss your nicotine and cotinine results and what they mean for your goals with a healthcare provider.
Order this test online
- Buy online in a few minutes - no doctor's visit needed for most tests.
- Sample collection at a patient service center near you.
- Results are typically ready within 1-3 business days.
- Secure, lab-reviewed results delivered to your account.
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Questions people ask
What does cotinine tell you that nicotine does not?
Cotinine is a metabolite of nicotine that remains in the body longer, so it is a more reliable marker of recent nicotine exposure than nicotine alone.
Can this test detect secondhand smoke?
Yes. Nicotine and cotinine can be detected after passive exposure to tobacco smoke, though levels are usually lower than with active use.
Does a positive nicotine result mean I smoke?
Not necessarily. Nicotine can come from vaping, smokeless tobacco, nicotine replacement products, or secondhand smoke. The result shows exposure, not the source.
Do I need to stop using nicotine before the test?
Follow the instructions provided with your order. If the goal is to confirm abstinence, you may be asked to avoid nicotine products for a set period beforehand.
What does the Nicotine Metabolite Screen, Blood measure?
Order Nicotine Metabolite Screen, Blood.com online through our partner and visit a local lab near you.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Follow the lab's instructions.
How long do results take?
Most Nicotine Metabolite Screen, Blood results are released in 1-3 business days. Specialty testing can take longer.
Is this test right for me?
This page is educational and not medical advice. Talk to a licensed healthcare provider about which tests fit your situation.
LabBookings is an independent directory. We compare test details and pricing information, but we are not a laboratory and we do not perform testing or provide medical advice. Always talk to a licensed healthcare provider about your results and treatment.
Laboratory services are provided by independent, CLIA-certified testing partners. Availability, pricing, and turnaround times can vary by location and are confirmed at checkout.