Nicotine test
Quick answer: This test checks for nicotine, or substances the body makes from it, in your blood or urine. It may be used to confirm tobacco or nicotine use, for example before some surgeries, in quit-smoking programmes or for insurance.
- SampleBlood or urine
- TakesA few minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1You are told whether a urine or blood sample is needed
- 2For urine, you pass a sample into a container, sometimes with staff supervision
- 3For blood, a needle draws a sample from your arm
- 4The lab tests for nicotine or cotinine, the substance the body makes from it
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Results show recent nicotine exposure from any source, including smoking, chewing tobacco or nicotine patches; discuss them with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result can show recent exposure to nicotine from any source, such as cigarettes, beedis, chewing tobacco, gutka, vaping, nicotine gum or patches, or heavy second-hand smoke. A negative result suggests no recent nicotine exposure.
Who usually has this test
People before certain surgeries, in quit-tobacco programmes, for some insurance or work requirements, and sometimes as part of fertility or transplant assessments.
Risks and aftercare
There are no risks from a urine sample, and a blood sample may leave a small bruise.
Names and options
Also called: cotinine test, nicotine level
Options
- Serum
- Urine
Listed by the hospital as
- NICOTINE, SERUM
- NICOTINE, URINE
Questions about this test
How long does nicotine stay detectable in urine?
Nicotine itself clears quickly, but cotinine, which the body makes from it, can usually be found in urine for several days after use. Regular use can extend this, so the result reflects recent rather than past exposure.
Can nicotine patches or gum make the test positive?
Yes. Nicotine replacement products contain nicotine, so the test will be positive. Tell staff if you use them, as some tests can tell tobacco use apart from replacement therapy.
Does second-hand smoke show up on a nicotine test?
Heavy exposure to other people's smoke can give a low level of cotinine. This is usually much lower than in people who use tobacco themselves.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.