Understanding Your Laboratory Test: A Patient's Guide to What It Is, Why It Is Needed, and How It Is Done
This test detects the presence of amphetamines in your blood to monitor drug use or treatment compliance.
{"The test checks if amphetamines (stimulant drugs) are present in your blood","It is used for monitoring treatment, workplace testing, or clinical assessment","Results are reported as positive or negative (presence/absence)"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 3348-0
- Short code
- Amphetamines SerPl Ql
- Synonyms
- Amphetamines SerPl Ql
- 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, and what exactly does it measure or evaluate in my body?
The Amphetamines test is a laboratory test that detects whether amphetamine-type stimulant drugs are present in your blood (serum or plasma). These drugs include prescription medications like Adderall, Dexedrine, and Vyvanse, as well as illegal stimulants such as methamphetamine. This is a qualitative test, meaning it shows whether the drug is present (positive) or not present (negative), rather than measuring the exact amount.
Why might my healthcare provider order this test for me, and what conditions can it help diagnose or monitor?
Your healthcare provider may order this test for several reasons: to monitor patients taking prescription amphetamines for conditions like ADHD or narcolepsy, to check for compliance with treatment plans, for workplace or pre-employment drug screening, in emergency situations when drug intoxication is suspected, or during substance abuse treatment programs. It may also be used in forensic or legal contexts.
How is this test performed, and what should I expect during the procedure?
A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The blood is then sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed using specialized equipment to detect the presence of amphetamines or their metabolites. The test looks for even small amounts of these substances in your bloodstream.
How should I prepare for this test, including any dietary restrictions, medication guidance, or other steps before my appointment?
Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding medications. If you are taking prescription amphetamines, inform your doctor as this may affect interpretation of results. There are typically no fasting requirements for this test. Tell your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as some substances may potentially cause false-positive results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings2
Frequently asked questions
How long do amphetamines stay in blood?
Can a positive result mean I have a prescription?
Will foods or supplements affect the test?
How long will it take to get results?
Is fasting required before this 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