Nicotine Exposure Test (COT) 200 ng/ml for Monitoring Active Use

The nicotine exposure test is intended for the detection of cotinine, the primary metabolite of nicotine, from a urine sample when the purpose is to specifically assess active nicotine use. The cut-off value of the test is 200 ng/ml, which helps reduce the influence of low-level or indirect exposure on the test result.

The higher cut-off makes the test suitable for situations where active use needs to be distinguished from occasional or passive exposure. The test is well suited for follow-up, assessments and control situations where a clear and practical screening result is required.

If the goal is to detect even very small amounts of nicotine or possible indirect exposure, a more sensitive test with a lower cut-off value (10 ng/ml) may be a more appropriate option.

🧪 What the test measures

The nicotine exposure test does not measure nicotine directly, but cotinine, its most important metabolite. When nicotine is used or the body is exposed to nicotine, it is metabolised in the liver and converted into cotinine, which is excreted in urine.

Cotinine remains detectable in the body longer than nicotine itself, which makes it a more reliable marker for assessing nicotine exposure over the past few days. The 200 ng/ml cut-off is specifically designed to support monitoring of active use.

⏱️ How long nicotine can be detected in urine

Nicotine is eliminated from the bloodstream relatively quickly, but cotinine can typically be detected in urine for approximately 2–3 days after the last exposure. The detection window may vary depending on individual metabolism, amount of use and the cut-off value of the test.

The nicotine exposure test 200 ng/ml is designed to minimise the effect of occasional or passive exposure and provide practical results for monitoring active use.

🎯 When to use the nicotine exposure test

The nicotine exposure test 200 ng/ml is particularly suitable in situations where active nicotine use needs to be monitored while reducing the likelihood that passive exposure affects the result.

The test can be used for monitoring nicotine abstinence, occupational health assessments, supervised environments and educational institutions, as well as other situations where a clear distinction between active use and environmental exposure is required.

✅ Reliable screening method for professional use and personal monitoring

The urine-based rapid test provides a clear screening result within minutes without the need for laboratory analysis. Cotinine can typically be detected in urine for 2–3 days after exposure, making the test suitable for monitoring active use and verifying nicotine-free status.

When interpreting results, it should be noted that nicotine is also present in nicotine replacement products such as gum, patches and sprays. The 200 ng/ml cut-off reduces their impact compared to more sensitive tests.

🔍 How the test works

Nicotine leaves the bloodstream quickly, but part of it is converted into cotinine, which is excreted in urine. Cotinine can be detected for several days after exposure. Urine pH does not significantly affect the test result. The test is suitable for repeated and objective monitoring.

🏥 Typical areas of use

• healthcare and social services for monitoring nicotine abstinence
• occupational health assessments and follow-up
• educational institutions and supervised facilities
• sports organisations and youth or family care settings
• personal self-monitoring

🚬 Detects common nicotine sources

Cigarettes. Snus and nicotine pouches. E-cigarettes and vapour. Nicotine gum, patches and sprays.

⚙️ Technical specifications

Sample type: urine. Cut-off value: 200 ng/ml. Result time: approximately 3–8 minutes. CE-marked IVD rapid test. Intended use: professional use and personal monitoring.

📦 Package contents

• Selected package size containing nicotine exposure tests (COT) (1, 3 or 5 pcs)
• Clear instructions for use in English
• A separate sample container and timing device are required

⏱️ Fast and easy to use

Simple handling, quick response time and a higher cut-off value make this test a practical tool when reliable information about active nicotine use is needed. The test is intended for assessment of nicotine exposure and should not be used as the sole basis for medical decisions.

🧾 Instructions for use (summary)

Collect a urine sample in a clean container. The sample can be taken at any time of day. Allow the sample to reach room temperature if necessary. Dip the test strip into the urine up to the MAX line for 10–15 seconds. Place the strip on a flat surface and read the result after 5 minutes.

🟢 Negative: two lines (C + T).
🔴 Positive: only the C line is visible.
⚠️ Invalid: the C line is missing, and the test must be repeated.

🔎 Do you need a more sensitive option?

If the purpose is to detect very small amounts of nicotine or possible indirect exposure, a more sensitive test with a lower cut-off value (10 ng/ml) may be a more suitable option.

👉 See also our other drug tests