Nicotine Metabolite Screen
Nicotine Metabolite Screen can be requested without a referral, and this overview covers what to expect. The Nicotine Metabolite Screen is a blood test that detects chemicals produced when the body breaks down nicotine. It is ordered to check for recent tobacco or nicotine exposure, often when someone is using nicotine replacement therapy or in workplace or insurance settings.
- Sample type
- blood
- Category
- Drug & Urine Screening
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Price
- $159
- Referral
- Not required
The Nicotine Metabolite Screen is a blood test that detects chemicals produced when the body breaks down nicotine. It is ordered to check for recent tobacco or nicotine exposure, often when someone is using nicotine replacement therapy or in workplace or insurance settings.
What it measures
- Cotinine — The main breakdown product of nicotine; shows recent use over the past few days.
- Nicotine — The original drug; levels drop quickly, so it indicates very recent use.
- Trans-3'-hydroxycotinine — Another nicotine byproduct; helps confirm exposure and estimate how fast your body processes nicotine.
- Anabasine — A chemical found in tobacco but not in nicotine medicines; helps tell tobacco use apart from nicotine replacement.
Who it is for
Healthcare providers, employers, or insurance companies may order this test. It is often used to monitor people in smoking-cessation programs or to verify tobacco use for employment or insurance purposes.
Preparation
No fasting or special preparation is needed. Tell your provider about any nicotine products you use, including patches, gum, or e-cigarettes, because they can affect results.
Results and what they mean
Results are reported as a number for each substance, often with a cutoff to indicate positive or negative. Your clinician interprets these results along with your history and other tests. This information is not medical advice; talk to a qualified healthcare professional about your results.
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 nicotine metabolite screen 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
How long after using nicotine will this test be positive?
Cotinine can be detected for about 1 to 3 days after nicotine use, while nicotine itself may only be found for a few hours.
Can secondhand smoke cause a positive result?
Yes, heavy secondhand smoke exposure can sometimes lead to a low positive cotinine level, but levels are usually much lower than with active use.
Does using a nicotine patch or gum affect the test?
Yes, these products can raise nicotine and cotinine levels. However, they do not contain anabasine, so that marker can help tell them apart from tobacco.
Is this test private?
Yes, your results are confidential and shared only with those you authorize, such as your healthcare provider.