Testing for Nicotine
Published: June 20, 2019 · Last reviewed on this site: 2026-10-30
This answer may be out of date. It was published over 3 years ago. Health guidance changes — check with a doctor or trusted adult.
The question
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Does a routine blood test show nicotine or continine levels? Or is it a specific nicotine test that has to be payed for ?
Signed: TeenHealthFX
The answer
Routine blood tests do not check for nicotine. Nicotine, the active ingredient in tobacco products, or its primary metabolite cotinine, can be detected in someone’s blood as well as their urine, saliva and hair from a few days up to several weeks after use. A healthcare provider would have to specifically request testing for nicotine (cotinine).
One of the most important things you can do for your health If you are using tobacco products – cigarettes, chew, snus, or vaping – is quitting. Click [here for resources.