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Barbituratescfmmethur

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test checks for barbiturate medications in your urine to monitor treatment or detect substance use.

Quick summary

{"Detects barbiturate drugs (sedatives) in urine samples","Used to monitor medication compliance or detect drug use","Results are confirmed using specialized laboratory methods","Results are typically available within a few days"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
19278-1
Short code
BARBCONF
Synonyms
Barbiturates Cfm Meth Ur
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile, leak-proof urine collection container without preservatives
Units
N/A
Ref low
3.5
Ref high
7.2
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) or Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
CPT
80345
SNOMED
395112001
Specimen volume
20-30 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 48 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Barbiturate Urine Test is a laboratory test that detects the presence of barbiturates in your urine. Barbiturates are a class of medications that act as sedatives or anticonvulsants. This test uses a confirmatory method, which is a highly accurate laboratory technique to verify the presence and amount of these drugs.

Why might I need this test?

Your healthcare provider may order this test for several reasons: to monitor if you are taking your prescribed barbiturate medication as directed, to check for accidental or intentional overdose, or as part of a drug screening program. It may also be used in emergency situations when barbiturate poisoning is suspected.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected in a sterile container. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where it undergoes testing using confirmatory methods such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). These methods can accurately identify and measure specific barbiturate compounds.

What do the results mean?

A positive result means barbiturates were detected in your urine. The specific level and type of barbiturate found can help your healthcare provider understand your situation. If you are taking prescribed barbiturates, the test can confirm you are taking your medication. Your provider will discuss what your specific results mean for your treatment.

Are there any risks?

This test involves providing a urine sample, which is generally safe and non-invasive. There are no physical risks associated with the test itself. Some people may feel uncomfortable providing a urine sample in a clinical setting.

Reference range

NCBI: Uric Acid Male 3.5-7.2 mg/dL; Female 2.5-6.8 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: urine

No special patient preparation is required. Patient should be informed that certain prescribed medications containing barbiturates (e.g., phenobarbital, butabarbital) will produce positive results. Random urine collection is acceptable.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

How long do barbiturates stay detectable in urine?
The detection window varies depending on the specific barbiturate, dosage, and individual factors like metabolism. Generally, barbiturates can be detected in urine for several days to weeks after last use. Short-acting barbiturates may be detectable for 2-4 days, while long-acting ones like phenobarbital can be detected for up to 2-3 weeks.
Do I need to prepare for the test?
No special preparation is typically needed. Simply provide a urine sample as directed by your healthcare provider or testing facility. It is important to inform your provider about all medications, supplements, and vitamins you are taking, as some substances may affect test results.
Will the test show how much medication I took?
Confirmatory tests can provide quantitative results, meaning they can estimate the amount of barbiturate present. However, the exact dosage taken cannot be precisely determined from urine testing alone, as it depends on many individual factors like metabolism and hydration.
Are false positives possible?
Confirmatory methods like GC-MS and LC-MS/MS are highly specific and rarely produce false positives. These tests identify the exact barbiturate compound present. However, it is important to disclose all medications you are taking, as certain prescription drugs or supplements may potentially interfere with screening tests before confirmation.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Drug TestingSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Barbiturate intoxicationSource
  3. 3
    Lab Tests Online - Urine 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy