There are two basic types of tests that are used to screen or monitor glycosuria -- copper reduction tests and enzyme tests.

Most enzyme tests use the enzyme glucose oxidase impregnated on a dipstick along with a chromagen, and are specific for detecting only glucose.

The copper reduction tests, however, detect any reducing substance.

Clinitest® uses the classic Benedict’s copper reduction reaction. Any reducing substances present in the urine will react with the copper sulfate reagent, and the blue cupric sulfate is subsequently reduced to cuprous oxide. The resultant color change from blue through green to orange is proportional to the amount of reducing substance in the urine sample.