Creatinine
The Creatinine blood test measures the level of creatinine in your blood, a waste product filtered by the kidneys. It is a key marker used to assess kidney function and overall renal health.
Turnaround time
Results available 1 day after arrival in lab
Biomarkers count
1
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Details about Creatinine
What is the Creatinine Blood Test?
The Creatinine blood test measures creatinine, a waste product produced by normal muscle metabolism. Creatinine is released into the bloodstream and almost entirely filtered out by the kidneys.
Because creatinine levels depend on how effectively the kidneys are filtering blood, this test is one of the most widely used indicators of kidney function. When kidney filtration declines, creatinine levels in the blood rise.
Creatinine is commonly tested on its own or alongside other kidney markers to assess both acute and chronic kidney health.
Why do I need a Creatinine Blood Test?
A creatinine blood test is recommended when kidney function needs to be assessed, monitored, or ruled out as a cause of symptoms. Kidney problems often develop silently, making blood testing essential for early detection.
You may benefit from this test if you have:
- Fatigue or low energy
- Swelling in the ankles, feet or face
- Changes in urine output or colour
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Dehydration
- Known kidney disease
- Use of medications that affect the kidneys
- Abnormal results on previous blood tests
- Routine health or medication monitoring
Early identification of abnormal creatinine levels allows prompt investigation and management.
Benefits of the Creatinine Blood Test
- Key marker of kidney function
Directly reflects how well the kidneys filter waste. - Detects early kidney impairment
Identifies changes before symptoms appear. - Useful for chronic disease monitoring
Essential in diabetes and hypertension. - Supports medication safety
Important for drugs cleared by the kidneys. - Simple and widely available test
Quick blood draw with reliable results. - Helps assess dehydration status
Levels can rise with reduced fluid intake. - Used in acute and chronic settings
Relevant for sudden illness or long-term monitoring. - Forms part of kidney health screening
Often combined with eGFR for fuller assessment.
Step-by-Step – How the Test is Performed
- Book your blood test appointment online
- Attend your chosen UK clinic
- A healthcare professional collects a blood sample
- The procedure takes only a few minutes
- Results are reviewed once available
Optional home blood collection may be available in selected areas.
Your Creatinine Results Explained
Creatinine results are interpreted using UK laboratory reference ranges, taking into account age, sex and muscle mass.
Normal Creatinine Levels
What this means:
- Creatinine is within the reference range
What it suggests:
Normal kidney filtration at the time of testing.
Mildly Raised Creatinine
What this may indicate:
- Mild reduction in kidney function
- Dehydration
- Medication effects
What it suggests:
Often reversible but may require monitoring or repeat testing.
Significantly Raised Creatinine
What this may indicate:
- Reduced kidney filtration
- Acute kidney injury
- Chronic kidney disease
What it suggests:
Further investigation and medical review may be required.
Low Creatinine Levels
What this may indicate:
- Low muscle mass
- Pregnancy
- Malnutrition
Usually not clinically concerning on its own.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
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.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
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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.