Breath Testing - Urea Breath Test

Your doctor has requested a Urea Breath test. This test involves the collection and analysis of exhaled air.

On the night before the test:

• you should fast (no food or liquids including water) for a minimum of six hours before the test
• The test can be performed at any time of the day, and will take approximately 10 – 15 minutes
• You will be required to swallow a capsule containing urea (carbon 14) on commencement of the test
• At the conclusion of the test you will be asked to blow into a special breath collection balloon which is sent to the laboratory for analysis
• No restrictions to physical activity before or during the test
• No smoking or eating during the test

This test should not be performed on children and pregnant or lactating women (please speak with your medical practitioner).

Medication restrictions include:

• No antibiotics for four weeks prior to test
• No Losec, Zoton, or Somac for one week prior to test
• No Cytoprotectives (sucralfate) for two weeks prior to test
• For a full list of medication restrictions, please see our collection staff
• Your doctor must be notified prior to temporarily stopping any medications.