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Amphetfldqlscn

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

This test detects the presence of amphetamines in your blood to screen for stimulant drug use.

Quick summary

{"The test checks if amphetamine-type drugs are present in your blood","It is commonly used for workplace testing, legal investigations, or medical evaluation","A positive result may indicate recent use of ADHD medications or illicit stimulants","Results should be confirmed with a more specific test if positive","Certain prescription medications may cause false positive results"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
78790-3
Short code
Amphet Fld Ql Scn
Synonyms
Amphet Fld Ql Scn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
screen
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 Amphetamine Screen Test is a blood test that looks for the presence of amphetamine-type stimulants in your bloodstream. This screening test uses chemical methods to detect whether drugs like amphetamine or methamphetamine have been used recently.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be ordered for several reasons: pre-employment drug screening, monitoring patients on prescription stimulant medications (such as those for ADHD), legal or forensic investigations, or as part of a comprehensive drug screening panel in healthcare settings.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed using screening methods to detect the presence of amphetamines. The process is similar to routine blood tests.

What do the results mean?

A negative result means no amphetamines were detected in your blood at the time of testing. A positive result indicates the presence of amphetamine-type substances. However, because this is a screening test, any positive result typically requires confirmation with a more specific test (like GC-MS) to identify the exact substance.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings2

Frequently asked questions

How long do amphetamines stay in your blood?
Amphetamines can typically be detected in blood for about 12-24 hours after use, though this varies depending on the specific substance, dosage, individual metabolism, and frequency of use.
Can ADHD medications cause a positive result?
Yes. Prescription ADHD medications such as amphetamine/dextroamphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta), and similar stimulants will cause a positive result on this screening test.
What should I do if my test is positive?
If you test positive, your healthcare provider will discuss the result with you. If you have a valid prescription for a medication that contains amphetamines, bring your prescription documentation to confirm legitimate use. A confirmatory test may be ordered to verify the specific substance.
Can anything else cause a false positive?
Certain over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and foods may potentially cause false positive results. Always disclose all medications and supplements to your healthcare provider before testing.
Is fasting required before this test?
No fasting is typically required for this blood test. However, follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or testing facility.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Drug TestingSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - Amphetamine Screen, SerumSource
  3. 3
    American Association for Clinical Chemistry - Drug of Abuse 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