Creatinine blood test
Quick answer: A creatinine test measures creatinine, a waste product from muscles that the kidneys filter out of the blood. It is one of the main tests of kidney function and is used to work out your eGFR.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testAvoid a large meat meal and heavy exercise just before the test, if possible.
How the test is done
- 1You sit and the inside of your elbow is cleaned
- 2A needle draws blood into a tube
- 3The lab measures creatinine
- 4Your eGFR is usually calculated from the result
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Normal ranges differ between labs and by age and sex, so discuss your result with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A high level can be seen with reduced kidney function, dehydration, some medicines, high muscle mass or eating a lot of meat. A low level can be seen with low muscle mass or pregnancy.
Who usually has this test
People having routine health checks, and people with diabetes, high blood pressure or kidney disease, or before scans with contrast dye.
Risks and aftercare
There may be a slight bruise; you can eat and drink normally afterwards.
Names and options
Also called: serum creatinine, kidney function test
Listed by the hospital as
- CREATININE, SERUM
Questions about this test
Can creatine supplements affect my creatinine?
Yes. Creatine supplements and heavy exercise can raise blood creatinine. Tell your doctor if you use them.
Why is creatinine lower in pregnancy?
Kidney blood flow increases in pregnancy, so the kidneys clear creatinine faster. Your doctor reads results with this in mind.
Does one high creatinine mean kidney disease?
Not always. Dehydration and other factors can raise it. Your doctor may repeat the test.
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.