Barbituratesmecmcnt
This test checks if a newborn has been exposed to barbiturate drugs before birth by testing the baby's first stool (meconium).
{"Detects prenatal exposure to barbiturate medications or abuse","Uses the baby's first stool (meconium) as the sample","Can detect drug exposure during the entire pregnancy","Helps identify babies who may need special medical care","Results are typically available within a few days"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 29161-7
- Short code
- Barbiturates Mec-mCnt
- Synonyms
- Barbiturates Mec-mCnt
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 3.5
- Ref high
- 7.2
- 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?
The meconium barbiturate test is a screening test that detects whether a newborn baby has been exposed to barbiturate drugs while in the womb. Barbiturates are medications that slow down brain activity and are sometimes prescribed for conditions like seizures, anxiety, or sleep problems. However, they can also be misused. This test uses meconium—the baby's first stool—which collects drug traces over the entire pregnancy, making it a good indicator of prenatal drug exposure.
How is the test done?
A healthcare provider collects a small sample of the baby's first stool (meconium), usually within the first 24-48 hours after birth. The sample is sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed using specialized equipment to detect the presence of barbiturates or their metabolites. The test is typically performed when there is a concern about maternal drug use during pregnancy.
What do the results mean?
A negative result means no barbiturates were detected in the meconium sample. A positive result indicates that the baby was exposed to barbiturates during pregnancy. The healthcare team will use this information, along with other clinical findings, to determine the appropriate care and monitoring for the newborn. It's important to note that certain prescription medications taken by the mother during pregnancy could cause a positive result.
Reference range
NCBI: Uric Acid Male 3.5-7.2 mg/dL; Female 2.5-6.8 mg/dLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Will this test hurt my baby?
If the test is positive, does it mean my baby is addicted?
Can prescribed medications cause a positive result?
How long does it take to get results?
Is this test confidential?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy