Cotinine Test in London
Same-Day Urine Nicotine Testing Explained
Need proof of smoking or nicotine use?
A cotinine test is the most accurate way to detect nicotine exposure.
At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, we offer same-day urine cotinine testing with fast, confidential results.
This guide explains what the test is, how long cotinine stays detectable, costs, and NHS vs private testing.
What Is a Cotinine Test?
Cotinine is the main breakdown product of nicotine.
Unlike nicotine, cotinine stays in the body much longer.
This makes it the gold-standard marker for:
- Smoking
- Vaping
- Nicotine patches or gum
- Passive smoke exposure
Cotinine testing is widely used in healthcare, insurance, employment, and fertility settings.
Urine Cotinine Test – How It Works
A urine cotinine test:
- Requires a simple urine sample
- Is non-invasive
- Provides reliable detection
Urine testing is preferred because cotinine remains detectable for longer than in blood or saliva.
Results are clear and objective.
How Long Does Cotinine Stay Detectable?
This is one of the most searched questions.
Typical detection times:
- Occasional use: up to 3 – 4 days
- Regular smokers or vapers: up to 7–10 days
- Heavy use: sometimes longer
Hydration, metabolism, and frequency of use all matter. Stopping nicotine the day before testing is not enough.
Cotinine Test Price in the UK
Prices vary depending on provider and turnaround time.
At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre:
- Urine Cotinine Test – competitively priced
- Same-day results available
- No GP referral required
Private testing offers speed, privacy, and flexibility.
Cotinine Test: NHS vs Private
Cotinine Test on the NHS
- Limited availability
- Usually linked to specific clinical pathways
- Long waiting times
- Not designed for certificates or employment use
Private Cotinine Test at MDC
- Walk-in or booked appointments
- Same-day results
- Discreet testing
- Suitable for medical, legal, or personal use
Most patients choose private testing for certainty and speed.
Nicotine Test Kits (Boots & At-Home Tests)
Many people search for nicotine test kits from Boots.
Home kits:
- Are screening tools only
- Can be affected by dilution
- Often lack clinical documentation
For official or medical use, a laboratory cotinine test is strongly recommended.
Why Is Cotinine Testing Requested?
Common reasons include:
- Pre-employment screening
- Insurance assessments
- Fertility or IVF requirements
- Smoking cessation verification
- Clinical monitoring
Cotinine testing provides objective evidence.
Same-Day Cotinine Testing in London
At MDC, we prioritise speed and accuracy.
- Urine sample collected on site
- Rapid laboratory processing
- Clear result interpretation
- Confidential handling
You receive results you can rely on.
Why Choose Marylebone Diagnostic Centre?
- Results within 24 – 42 hours, often same day
- On-site consultant review
- Private suites
- Discreet & confidential care
- Central London location
We test to medical standards, not retail shortcuts.
Book Your Cotinine Test Today
If you need accurate nicotine testing, do not rely on guesswork.
👉 Fast, discreet, same-day testing in Central London
Clinic Information
Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
📍 73 Baker Street, London W1U 6RD
📞 +44 7495 970109
🕒 Monday–Saturday, 8:00–16:00
🚇 5-minute walk from Baker Street tube
Results within 24 – 42 hours, depending on the test.
