6mamserplbldmcnc
A test to detect 6-monoacetylmorphine (6-MAM), a specific metabolite of heroin, in blood to identify recent heroin use.
{"6-MAM is a unique breakdown product of heroin that stays in blood for several hours after use","A positive result indicates recent heroin use, typically within the last 24-48 hours","This test is commonly used in forensic investigations, drug treatment programs, and workplace testing"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 74130-6
- Short code
- 6MAM
- Synonyms
- 6MAM SerPlBld-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or plasma collection tube with anticoagulant (EDTA or sodium fluoride)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 10
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 18 years
- Method
- Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
- CPT
- 80307
- SNOMED
- 385058005
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum or plasma
- Stability
- Refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): up to 30 days. Protect from light.
- Hemolysis max
- 50
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 20
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The 6-MAM test measures the amount of 6-monoacetylmorphine in your blood. 6-MAM is a special substance (metabolite) that your body produces when you use heroin. Unlike other substances that can come from different sources, 6-MAM is almost exclusively produced from heroin, making it a very specific marker for heroin use.
How is the test performed?
A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed using specialized equipment to detect and measure the presence of 6-MAM.
Why might I need this test?
This test may be ordered for several reasons: to monitor individuals in drug treatment programs, as part of workplace drug testing, in forensic investigations, for pain management compliance monitoring, or in emergency situations where heroin overdose is suspected.
How long does 6-MAM stay in your system?
6-MAM has a relatively short detection window. It typically remains in the blood for about 2-24 hours after heroin use, making it useful for detecting very recent use. This is shorter than other heroin metabolites like morphine, which can be detected for longer periods.
Reference range
Negative/Not Detected (Cutoff: <10 ng/mL)N/A
No special preparation required. Inform laboratory of any prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, or supplements that may interfere with testing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings2
Frequently asked questions
Will a positive 6-MAM test show if I have a prescription for opioid pain medication?
Can secondhand heroin exposure cause a positive result?
How long before the test will heroin use be detectable?
What happens if my test result is positive?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy