Test ID NICOS Nicotine and Metabolites, Serum
Useful For
Monitoring tobacco use in a clinical setting
Method Name
Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Reporting Name
Nicotine and Metabolites, SSpecimen Type
Serum RedSpecimen Required
Collection Container/Tube: Red top (serum gel/SST are not acceptable)
Submission Container/Tube: Plastic vial
Specimen Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
---|---|---|---|
Serum Red | Refrigerated (preferred) | 28 days | |
Ambient | 28 days | ||
Frozen | 28 days |
Reference Values
NICOTINE
<3.0 ng/mL
COTININE
<3.0 ng/mL
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Sunday
Performing Laboratory

CPT Code Information
80323
G0480 (if appropriate)
LOINC Code Information
Test ID | Test Order Name | Order LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
NICOS | Nicotine and Metabolites, S | 90226-2 |
Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
21313 | Nicotine | 3853-9 |
21314 | Cotinine | 10365-5 |
Test Classification
This test was developed, and its performance characteristics determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements. This test has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.Report Available
2 to 4 daysNY State Approved
YesForms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Therapeutics Test Request (T831) with the specimen.