Amphetaminesmsmtmec
This test checks a newborn's first stool (meconium) for exposure to amphetamine drugs during pregnancy.
{"Detects prenatal amphetamine exposure in newborns","Uses baby's first stool (meconium) as sample","Helps identify infants needing special medical care","Can detect drug exposure from the second trimester onward","Important for early intervention and baby safety"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 110932-1
- Short code
- Amphetamines Msmt Mec
- Synonyms
- Amphetamines Msmt Mec
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 in Meconium test is a laboratory test that detects whether a newborn baby was exposed to amphetamine-type stimulant drugs (such as methamphetamine or amphetamine) during pregnancy. The test analyzes meconium—the dark green, tar-like first stool that babies pass within the first few days of life. Meconium begins to form around the 12th week of pregnancy and can accumulate drug metabolites over time, making it an excellent indicator of prenatal drug exposure.
How is the sample collected?
The sample is collected from the baby's first bowel movements, typically within 24-72 hours after birth. Healthcare providers collect a small amount of meconium from the diaper using a special collection kit. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. This is a non-invasive test that does not cause any discomfort to the newborn.
Why is this test important?
This test is crucial for identifying infants who may have been exposed to amphetamines in the womb. Babies born to mothers who used amphetamines during pregnancy may experience withdrawal symptoms, developmental challenges, or other health issues that require early intervention. Early detection allows healthcare teams to provide appropriate care, monitoring, and support to ensure the best possible outcome for the baby.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Will this test hurt my baby?
What do the results mean?
Why is meconium used instead of blood or urine?
Does a positive result mean the mother used drugs?
What happens after a positive test?
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