Description
Ketostix is a type of urine test that measures the amounts of ketones in the urine. When a person with diabetes’ blood sugar is too high, their body may try to use other sources of energy for fuel. The body may start to break down fats into ketones, which can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a medical emergency.
People with type 1 diabetes have a higher risk of developing ketones in their urine. There are many situations where someone with type 1 diabetes may need to measure their ketones, including:
- When you are sick, even when blood sugar is normal.
- You have symptoms of DKA.
- You feel symptoms of nausea or vomiting.
- When your fasting blood sugar is high (>240 mg/dL).
- When your daytime blood sugar is high (>300 mg/dL).
- When instructed by your healthcare provider.
Directions
Use the directions that came with the package to ensure you use Ketostix correctly. If misused, they can give a false result.
- Wash your hands with soap and water. Dry thoroughly.
- Collect urine in a cup.
- Remove a Ketostix test strip from the container and dip it into the urine, covering the colored portion of the strip.
- Tap the strip on the edge of the cup to remove excess urine.
- Use a stopwatch to measure 15 seconds.
- At 15 seconds, compare the strip’s color against the side of the bottle to get the result.
Ingredients
Sodium Nitroprusside 7.1 %, Buffer 92.9 %
Cautions
After opening, the test strips expire in six months or the date on the bottle, whichever is first.
You must follow the testing instructions exactly, or the test can produce false results.
The test is most accurate when read by at least two different people.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ketostix
What are Ketostix?
Ketostix are urine test strips designed to measure the presence and concentration of ketones in the urine. They are commonly used by individuals following a ketogenic diet to monitor their state of ketosis.
How do Ketostix work?
Ketostix work by reacting with acetoacetate, one of the three types of ketone bodies produced when the body is in a state of ketosis. When dipped in urine, the strips change color based on the concentration of acetoacetate, providing an indication of ketosis.
Why do people on a ketogenic diet use Ketostix?
People on a ketogenic diet use Ketostix to confirm that their body is producing ketones, which is a sign that they are in a state of ketosis. It helps them assess the effectiveness of their dietary choices.
How do I use Ketostix?
To use Ketostix, simply dip the strip into a urine sample or hold it in the urine stream for a few seconds. After a short waiting period, the strip will change color. You can then compare the color change to the provided color chart to determine your ketone level.
What do the different color results on Ketostix mean?
Ketostix typically come with a color chart that corresponds to different ketone levels. The color change on the strip will match a specific color on the chart, indicating whether you are in a state of ketosis and the approximate level of ketones in your urine.
Can Ketostix be used to measure blood ketone levels?
No, Ketostix are specifically designed for measuring ketones in urine, not blood ketone levels. To measure blood ketone levels, you would need a blood ketone meter and test strips.
Are Ketostix accurate for measuring ketosis?
Ketostix provide a qualitative indication of ketosis, but they may not provide precise or accurate measurements. Factors like hydration levels can influence the results. For more accurate measurements, consider using a blood ketone meter.
Do Ketostix expire?
Yes, Ketostix can expire. It's important to check the expiration date on the packaging and only use strips that are within their validity period for accurate results.
Are there any side effects or precautions when using Ketostix?
There are generally no significant side effects associated with using Ketostix. However, it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper use and interpretation of results.
Can Ketostix be used by individuals with diabetes for monitoring ketones?
Ketostix are primarily used by individuals on a ketogenic diet. If you have diabetes and need to monitor ketones, it's advisable to consult with your healthcare provider for guidance on the appropriate testing method.
About Dr. Conor Sheehy (Page Author)
Dr. Sheehy (BSc Molecular Biology, PharmD) works a clinical pharmacist specializing in cardiology, oncology, and ambulatory care. He’s a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist (BCPS), and his experience working one-on-one with patients to fine tune their medication and therapy plans for optimal results makes him a valuable subject matter expert for our pharmacy. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 137