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Amphetaminesmsmtur

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

A urine test that detects the presence of amphetamines, a type of stimulant medication or recreational drug.

Quick summary

{"This test checks for amphetamines (like ADHD medications or illicit drugs) in your urine","It is commonly used for workplace drug screening, monitoring medication compliance, or detecting drug abuse","Results are typically available within a few days","Certain prescription medications and foods may affect test results"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
108017-5
Short code
Amphetamines Msmt Ur
Synonyms
Amphetamines Msmt 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 urine amphetamine test is a laboratory test that detects the presence of amphetamines in your urine. Amphetamines are stimulant drugs that affect the central nervous system. This includes prescription medications (such as Adderall, Dexedrine, or medications used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy) as well as illicit drugs (such as methamphetamine).

Why is this test ordered?

This test may be ordered for several reasons: workplace drug screening programs, monitoring patients on prescription amphetamine medications to ensure proper use, legal or forensic investigations, sports drug testing, or when a healthcare provider suspects drug abuse or overdose.

How is the test performed?

You will be asked to provide a urine sample in a private bathroom. The sample is collected in a sterile container. For workplace or legal testing, the collection may be observed to ensure sample integrity. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed using immunoassay techniques, followed by confirmation testing (typically gas chromatography-mass spectrometry) if the initial test is positive.

How long do amphetamines stay in urine?

Amphetamines can typically be detected in urine for 1-3 days after use, depending on the specific drug, dosage, frequency of use, individual metabolism, and kidney function. Chronic heavy use may result in detection for longer periods.

What can affect the test results?

Certain prescription medications (such as some antidepressants, blood pressure medications, or ADHD treatments), over-the-counter drugs, and dietary supplements may cause false positive results. It is important to inform the testing facility and your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required for a urine amphetamine test. You can eat and drink normally before providing the sample.
Will a positive result mean I am breaking the law?
A positive result alone does not determine legality. If you have a valid prescription for an amphetamine medication, you should inform the testing facility before the test. The medical review officer (MRO) will consider your prescription status when interpreting results.
Can secondhand exposure cause a positive result?
It is unlikely that secondhand exposure to amphetamines would cause a positive result in most circumstances. However, very heavy exposure in enclosed spaces might potentially affect results in rare cases.
How long does it take to get results?
Preliminary results may be available within 24-48 hours. Confirmation testing, if needed, may take additional time, typically 3-5 days total.
Is the test confidential?
Test results are protected by privacy laws (such as HIPAA in the United States). For workplace testing, results are typically shared only with the employer or the designated medical review officer. Your personal health information is kept confidential.
  1. 1
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - Amphetamine Screen, Random, UrineSource
  2. 2
    Quest Diagnostics - Drug Testing: AmphetaminesSource
  3. 3
    LabCorp - Drug TestingSource
  4. 4
    MedlinePlus - Drug TestingSource

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