6mamfreeurmcnc
A urine test that detects 6-monoacetylmorphine, a unique metabolite that indicates recent heroin use.
{"6-MAM is a specific marker for heroin metabolism in the body","The test uses a urine sample to detect recent heroin use","6-MAM has a shorter detection window than morphine (typically 24-48 hours)","Results are reported as positive or negative","This test is commonly used in substance abuse monitoring programs"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 51740-9
- Short code
- 6-MAM U
- Synonyms
- 6MAM Free Ur-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine collection container (100 mL capacity)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 12 years
- Method
- Immunoassay screening with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) confirmatory testing
- CPT
- 80307
- SNOMED
- 414589004
- Specimen volume
- Minimum 10 mL, preferred 20-30 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24-48 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 5-7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The 6-monoacetylmorphine (6-MAM) test is a specialized urine test that detects the presence of 6-MAM, which is a unique metabolite produced when the body processes heroin. Unlike other opioid metabolites like morphine or codeine, 6-MAM is only produced when heroin is metabolized, making it a specific indicator of heroin use.
How does the test work?
When heroin enters the body, it is quickly broken down into 6-monoacetylmorphine (6-MAM), which is then further metabolized into morphine. The test uses immunoassay techniques or mass spectrometry to detect the presence of 6-MAM in the urine sample. A positive result indicates recent heroin use, typically within the last 24-48 hours.
Why is 6-MAM specifically tested?
Testing for 6-MAM is important because it provides more specific evidence of heroin use compared to testing for morphine alone. Since morphine can come from legitimate medications like codeine or morphine sulfate, detecting 6-MAM helps confirm that the source is actually heroin. This makes the test particularly valuable in addiction treatment programs, workplace testing, and legal investigations.
Reference range
Negative/Not Detected (cutoff: 10 ng/mL)N/A
No special preparation required. Patient should provide a clean catch urine specimen. Inform laboratory of any prescribed medications or supplements that may interfere with test results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings2
Frequently asked questions
How long does 6-MAM stay detectable in urine?
Can a positive result come from prescription medications?
Will poppy seeds cause a positive 6-MAM test?
Is the test confidential?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
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.
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