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Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A confirmatory blood test that detects 6-monoacetylmorphine, a specific metabolite of heroin, to confirm recent heroin use.

Quick summary

{"6-MAM is a unique marker that confirms heroin use specifically","This is a confirmatory test used after initial drug screening","The test requires a blood (serum) sample","Results can indicate recent heroin use within 24-48 hours","It is more specific than general opioid tests"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
80116-7
Short code
6MAM
Synonyms
6MAM Fld Cfm-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red top serum tube or gold top SST
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
10
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–90 years
Method
confirm
CPT
80307
SNOMED
398036007
Specimen volume
1-2 mL serum
Stability
Refrigerated (2-8°C) for up to 7 days; Frozen (-20°C) for up to 30 days
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is a complete blood count (CBC) and what does it measure?

The 6-Monoacetylmorphine (6-MAM) test is a confirmatory laboratory test that detects the presence of 6-MAM in your blood. 6-MAM is a unique substance produced when your body processes heroin (also called diacetylmorphine). Unlike other opioid drugs like morphine or codeine, 6-MAM is only created during heroin metabolism, making it a specific marker for heroin use.

Why might my doctor order a complete blood count (CBC) for me?

This test is typically ordered when an initial drug screening test shows a positive result for opioids. The 6-MAM confirmatory test helps determine whether the positive result was specifically due to heroin use or other opioid medications. It is commonly used in drug treatment programs, workplace drug testing, forensic investigations, and clinical settings where accurate confirmation of heroin use is necessary.

How is a complete blood count (CBC) test performed during my visit?

A healthcare professional will collect a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where specialized equipment is used to detect and measure the amount of 6-MAM. The confirmatory method used is typically more accurate and specific than initial screening tests.

What do the results of my complete blood count (CBC) mean for my health?

A positive result indicates recent heroin use, typically within the past 24-48 hours. A negative result means no detectable 6-MAM was found in your blood at the time of testing. Your healthcare provider will interpret these results in the context of your medical history and the reason for testing.

Reference range

Negative/Not Detected (<10 ng/mL)N/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Inform laboratory of any prescribed or over-the-counter medications, as certain substances may interfere with testing. Provide complete medication history including opioids and derivatives.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

How long does heroin stay detectable in this test?
6-MAM can typically be detected in blood for about 24-48 hours after heroin use. The detection window is shorter than some other drug tests because 6-MAM is quickly converted to morphine and eliminated from the body.
Will pain medications cause a positive result?
No. This test is specifically designed to detect 6-MAM, which is only produced when heroin is metabolized. Prescription opioid pain medications like morphine, oxycodone, or hydrocodone do not produce 6-MAM, so they should not cause a positive result on this specific test.
Do I need to prepare for the test?
No special preparation is typically required for this blood test. However, you should inform your healthcare provider about any medications or substances you have recently taken, as this information may be important for interpreting your results.
Is the test confidential?
Yes, like all medical tests, your 6-MAM test results are protected by privacy laws and are part of your confidential medical record. The specific confidentiality protections may vary depending on the purpose of the test (clinical, employment, or legal).
  1. 1
    LOINC Code ReferenceSource
  2. 2
    SAMHSA Drug Testing GuidelinesSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy