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Amphetaminesurqlscn500ngml

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

A urine test that detects the presence of amphetamines (stimulant drugs) using a screening method with a cutoff of 500 ng/mL.

Quick summary

{"This test checks if amphetamines are present in your urine","A positive result means the drug was detected above the testing threshold","Screening tests can sometimes give false results, so confirmatory testing is often needed","The test is commonly used for workplace drug testing, medical monitoring, or clinical evaluation","Certain medications and substances may affect test results"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
43983-6
Short code
Amphetamines Ur Ql Scn>500 ng/mL
Synonyms
Amphetamines Ur Ql Scn>500 ng/mL
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
screen-ng-ml
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 Urine Screening Test is a laboratory test that detects the presence of amphetamines in your urine. Amphetamines are stimulant drugs that affect the central nervous system, including medications like Adderall, Dexedrine, and methamphetamine. This test uses an immunoassay screening method with a cutoff threshold of 500 ng/mL, meaning the test looks for drug levels at or above this concentration.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected, typically in a clean container provided by the testing facility. The sample is then analyzed using an immunoassay technique, which detects the presence of amphetamine molecules through antibody reactions. This is a preliminary screening test, meaning it provides a yes/no type of result rather than measuring exact drug levels.

Why is this test ordered?

Healthcare providers may order this test for several reasons: workplace or pre-employment drug screening, monitoring patients on prescription amphetamine medications (such as for ADHD), evaluating patients with symptoms of drug use or overdose, or as part of a broader drug panel. It may also be used in emergency settings to help diagnose poisoning or overdose situations.

What do the results mean?

A NEGATIVE result means no amphetamines were detected in your urine at or above the 500 ng/mL threshold. This could mean you have not used amphetamines recently, or the drug level is below what the test can detect. A POSITIVE result indicates that amphetamines were detected in your urine above the testing threshold. However, a positive screening test does not confirm the specific type or amount of drug used—this requires confirmatory testing.

Are there any limitations?

Yes, screening tests have limitations. They can sometimes produce FALSE POSITIVES, meaning the test suggests amphetamines are present when they are not. This can happen due to certain prescription medications (such as some antidepressants, blood pressure medications, or ADHD treatments), dietary supplements, or lab errors. Additionally, FALSE NEGATIVES can occur if the drug was used but has already been eliminated from your body, or if the concentration is below the test's detection threshold. Because of these limitations, positive screening results typically require confirmatory testing using a more specific method like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS).

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

How long do amphetamines stay in urine?
Amphetamines can typically be detected in urine for 1-3 days after use, though this varies depending on the specific drug, dose, individual metabolism, and frequency of use. Factors like hydration, kidney function, and body mass can affect detection times.
Can my prescription medications cause a positive result?
Yes, certain prescription medications may cause false positive results on amphetamine screening tests. These may include some medications for ADHD (like Adderall or Ritalin if not properly documented), certain antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and some antihistamines. Always inform the testing facility of all medications you are taking before the test.
What happens if my test is positive?
If your screening test is positive, the laboratory or your healthcare provider will typically recommend confirmatory testing using a more specific method (like GC-MS) to verify the result. A positive result will be discussed with you by your healthcare provider, who will consider your medical history, medications, and clinical symptoms when determining what the result means for your care.
Is the test painful?
No, the test only requires a urine sample, which is painless. You will be asked to provide a urine sample in a private bathroom or collection area.
Do I need to prepare for the test?
Generally, no special preparation is needed. However, you should inform the testing personnel of any prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, or supplements you are taking. Some facilities may ask you to avoid certain foods or drinks before the test, though this is less common for urine drug screening.
  1. 1
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - Test CatalogSource
  2. 2
    American Clinical Laboratory AssociationSource
  3. 3
    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