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Cotinine (Serum)
124.00
The Cotinine (Serum) test measures nicotine exposure in the body. It is used to confirm active or passive tobacco and nicotine product use.
Turnaround time
1 day
Biomarkers count
1
Same-Day Appointments
UKAS Accredited Labs
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Under 18? Patients under 18 can only be seen at GB Medlabs and Clinilabs, Monday to Friday only.
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Details about Cotinine (Serum)
What is the Cotinine (Serum) test?
The Cotinine (Serum) test measures the level of cotinine in the blood. Cotinine is the primary metabolite of nicotine and remains detectable in the bloodstream for longer than nicotine itself, making it a reliable marker of recent nicotine exposure.
This test is widely used to objectively assess exposure to nicotine from smoking, vaping, nicotine replacement therapies, or second-hand smoke. Because cotinine has a longer half-life, it provides a more accurate reflection of nicotine intake over the previous few days.
Serum cotinine testing is commonly used in clinical, occupational, insurance, and research settings.
Why do I need a Cotinine (Serum) test?
Self-reported smoking or nicotine use is not always reliable. Measuring cotinine provides objective confirmation of exposure, which is important in both medical and administrative contexts.
You may need a Cotinine (Serum) test if you:
- Need confirmation of smoking or vaping status
- Are undergoing pre-employment or occupational screening
- Require insurance or medical clearance
- Are monitoring smoking cessation
- Need assessment of passive smoke exposure
- Are using nicotine replacement therapy
- Require objective documentation of nicotine use
The test can distinguish between non-smokers, passive exposure, and active nicotine use.
Benefits of the Cotinine (Serum) test
- Reliable marker of nicotine exposure
More stable than nicotine measurement. - Detects active and passive exposure
Identifies second-hand smoke exposure. - Objective and measurable
Not reliant on self-reporting. - Useful in smoking cessation programmes
Tracks progress over time. - Applicable to vaping and nicotine products
Detects all nicotine sources. - Widely used in occupational screening
Supports compliance and policy decisions. - Simple blood test
Requires only a single sample. - Clinically recognised and validated
Standard marker in toxicology.
Step by step – how the test works
You can access Cotinine (Serum) testing UK-wide through two options:
- Clinic appointment
Choose your nearest UK clinic. A healthcare professional will take your blood sample. - At-home or hotel visit (£60 extra)
A qualified phlebotomist comes to your home or hotel, so you don’t need to travel.
Your sample is analysed in an accredited UK laboratory, and results are delivered securely.
Your results explained
Low or undetectable cotinine levels
Indicate no nicotine exposure or remote past exposure.
Typical UK interpretation:
- < 10 ng/mL (non-smoker)
Moderate cotinine levels
May indicate passive smoke exposure or light nicotine use.
Typical UK interpretation:
- 10–100 ng/mL
High cotinine levels
Indicate active nicotine use from smoking, vaping, or nicotine replacement products.
Typical UK interpretation:
- > 100 ng/mL
Cut-off values may vary slightly by laboratory and clinical context.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Book Online
Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
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Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
3
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
Take control of your health with London Blood Tests
WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
It measures nicotine exposure over the past few days.
Usually 2–4 days after nicotine exposure.
Yes. All nicotine-containing products raise cotinine.
Yes. Nicotine replacement therapy increases cotinine levels.
No fasting is required.
Yes, especially with repeated exposure.
Yes, commonly used to verify smoking status.
No. It detects nicotine exposure regardless of source.
Yes. Home or hotel phlebotomy is available UK-wide for £60 extra.
Yes, particularly for medical or occupational use.
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