Barbituratesmecqlcfm
This test checks if a newborn baby was exposed to barbiturate medications or drugs before birth by testing the baby's first stool (meconium).
{"This test detects barbiturate exposure during pregnancy","Sample is collected from the baby's first stool (meconium)","Results help healthcare providers assess newborn health needs","Positive results do not necessarily mean the baby is currently affected","Follow-up care will be recommended if needed"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 38439-6
- Short code
- Barbiturates Mec Ql Cfm
- Synonyms
- Barbiturates Mec Ql Cfm
- 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
- Method
- confirm
- 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 barbiturate meconium test is a laboratory test that checks whether a newborn baby was exposed to barbiturates (a type of sedative medication) while in the womb. Barbiturates are sometimes prescribed for anxiety, sleep disorders, or seizures, but they can also be used recreationally. This test uses a confirmatory method to ensure accurate results.
What is meconium?
Meconium is the first stool (feces) passed by a newborn baby. It is dark green or black in color and sticky in texture. Meconium forms during the pregnancy and can contain traces of substances that the mother consumed, including medications and drugs. Testing meconium can reveal exposure that occurred during the later stages of pregnancy, typically the last 2-3 months.
How is the sample collected?
The sample is collected from the baby's first stool (meconium), usually within the first 24-48 hours after birth. Healthcare providers collect a small amount of meconium from the diaper and send it to the laboratory for testing. This is a routine procedure and does not cause any discomfort to the baby.
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. It is important to note that a positive result does not necessarily mean the baby is currently suffering from any health problems, but it does indicate that the baby may need monitoring or follow-up care.
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 findings2
Frequently asked questions
Why does my baby need this test?
Will the test hurt my baby?
What happens if the result is positive?
Is this test confidential?
How long does it take to get results?
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