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Amphetaminescfmmethur

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

This test confirms the presence of amphetamines in a urine sample using specialized laboratory methods.

Quick summary

{"Detects amphetamine and methamphetamine in urine","Used to verify positive screening results or monitor medication compliance","Can detect use within 1-3 days after ingestion"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
19269-0
Short code
Amphetamines Cfm Meth Ur
Synonyms
Amphetamines Cfm Meth Ur
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Amphetamines Confirmatory Test is a laboratory test performed on a urine sample to confirm whether amphetamine-type stimulants are present in your body. This test uses advanced methods like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to accurately identify and measure specific amphetamine compounds.

Why is this test ordered?

This test may be ordered for several reasons: (1) To confirm a positive screening result from a preliminary drug test, (2) To monitor patients taking prescription amphetamine medications (such as those for ADHD or narcolepsy) to ensure proper use, (3) For workplace or legal testing programs, (4) In healthcare settings to evaluate potential drug use or overdose.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected in a sterile container. The sample is then processed in a laboratory using sophisticated equipment that can detect even small amounts of amphetamine compounds. The confirmatory method is more accurate than initial screening tests and can distinguish between different types of amphetamines.

What do the results mean?

A positive result indicates that amphetamine or methamphetamine was detected in your urine. This could be from prescription medication (such as Adderall, Ritalin, or Desoxyn) or from illicit use. A negative result means no amphetamines were detected, or levels were below the test's detection threshold. Your healthcare provider will interpret results based on your medical history and circumstances.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This confirmatory test is clinically important because preliminary screening tests can sometimes produce false positives. The confirmatory method provides legally defensible, highly accurate results. It helps healthcare providers make informed decisions about patient care, substance abuse treatment, or medication management. For patients on prescription amphetamines, it ensures compliance with prescribed dosing. For law enforcement or workplace testing, it provides authoritative evidence of drug use.

Detection window: Amphetamines can typically be detected in urine for 1-3 days after use, though this varies based on factors including dosage, frequency of use, individual metabolism, and body mass.

Frequently asked questions

Will I be told if my prescription medication shows up on the test?
Yes. The confirmatory test can identify specific amphetamine compounds. If you have a valid prescription, inform the testing facility beforehand. Your healthcare provider will consider your prescription history when interpreting results.
Can secondhand exposure cause a positive result?
It is unlikely but not impossible in extreme circumstances. The confirmatory test is sensitive enough to distinguish between incidental exposure and actual use based on the amount detected.
What happens if I test positive for illicit amphetamines?
Your healthcare provider will discuss the result with you and may recommend counseling, treatment referrals, or other appropriate interventions. For workplace or legal testing, results may have employment or legal implications depending on applicable policies.
Is the test painful?
No. The test only requires a urine sample, which is painless and non-invasive.
How long does it take to get results?
Confirmatory tests typically take longer than screening tests due to the sophisticated methods used. Results may take several days to a week, depending on the laboratory.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Drug TestingSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - Amphetamine Confirmation, UrineSource
  3. 3
    Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)Source

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