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Amphetaminesgastql

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test checks for the presence of amphetamines in stomach fluid to help diagnose drug exposure or overdose.

Quick summary

{"Detects amphetamine drugs in stomach contents","Helps diagnose intentional or accidental overdose","Used in emergency and toxicology settings","Results help guide treatment decisions","Often part of comprehensive drug screening"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
8140-6
Short code
Amphetamines Gast Ql
Synonyms
Amphetamines Gast Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Amphetamines Gastric Fluid test is a laboratory test that detects whether amphetamine-type stimulants are present in the stomach contents (gastric fluid). Amphetamines are stimulant drugs that affect the central nervous system and include medications like amphetamine, methamphetamine, and related compounds. This test is typically ordered when healthcare providers suspect drug ingestion, whether intentional (such as overdose or substance abuse) or accidental.

Unlike blood or urine tests that detect drug metabolites, gastric fluid testing can help determine if a drug was recently ingested and may provide information about the amount or type of substance taken. The sample is collected through a nasogastric tube or during procedures like gastric lavage (stomach pumping).

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Why is this test ordered?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of amphetamine overdose (such as agitation, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, or confusion) or if you are unable to provide a clear history of what substances you may have ingested.
How is the sample collected?
Gastric fluid is typically collected by inserting a thin tube through the nose or mouth into the stomach (nasogastric or orogastric tube). In some cases, the sample may be collected during an endoscopic procedure.
What do the results mean?
A positive result means amphetamines were detected in your stomach contents, indicating recent ingestion. A negative result does not necessarily rule out amphetamine use, as the drug may have already been absorbed or metabolized. Your doctor will interpret results in context with your symptoms and other test findings.
Is this test painful?
The insertion of the tube to collect gastric fluid may cause some discomfort or a gagging sensation, but it is generally well-tolerated. The procedure is brief and the tube is removed after the sample is collected.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Drug TestingSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Amphetamine AbuseSource

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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy