Urine Fluoride (24 hr or Random/FMV)

Fluoride is potentially toxic at high doses or with prolonged lower-level exposure. It may cause dental fluorosis, osteomalacia, ligament calcification, hypocalcemia, arrhythmias, neurotoxicity, headaches, vertigo, thyroid dysfunction and anemia. Recent studies indicate that fluoride exposure from fluoridated water correlates with increased risk of bone cancer in young boys, and hip fracture in the elderly. Fluoride is measured using an ion specific electrode.

 The Urine Halides/Iodine/Fluoride specimen takes 24 hours or less to collect depending on your physician’s instructions. If performing a 24 hour collection, the urine container holds a maximum of 4 liters. For best results, do not consume more than 3.5 liters (15 cups) of liquid during the collection period to avoid overfilling the container. For 5 days prior to and during the collection process you should avoid taking iodine supplements (other than the loading dose prescribed by your physician), non-essential medications and products that contain iodide/ iodine such as kelp, fish, and sea vegetables unless otherwise instructed by your physician. Never discontinue prescription medications without first consulting your physician. Female patients should not collect urine during a menstrual period. Use the provided vial and collection containers to avoid contamination of the specimen. Use of other collection materials may result in falsely elevated results.