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Barbituratessalqlscn

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

A saliva test to detect the presence of barbiturates, a class of central nervous system depressant medications.

Quick summary

{"Detects barbiturate drugs in saliva/oral fluid","Used for drug screening and monitoring","Results indicate presence but not quantity","Non-invasive sample collection","Positive results may require confirmation testing"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
72627-3
Short code
BARSAL
Synonyms
Barbiturates Sal Ql Scn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Saliva/oral fluid collection device (e.g., Quantisal, Oral-Eze, or equivalent saliva collection tube with buffer)
Units
N/A
Ref low
20
Ref high
50
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
screen
CPT
80307
SNOMED
271110003
Specimen volume
1-2 mL of oral fluid (as collected per device manufacturer instructions)
Stability
Room temperature: up to 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): up to 30 days (verify with specific device insert)
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Barbiturate Saliva Screen test detects the presence of barbiturates in your saliva (oral fluid). Barbiturates are a class of prescription medications that act as central nervous system depressants. They are typically used for sedation, anesthesia, seizure control, and sleep disorders. This screening test uses a simple oral fluid sample to determine if barbiturate drugs are present in your system.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will collect a saliva sample by placing a swab or collection device in your mouth to absorb oral fluid. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The test is a screening method, meaning it identifies whether barbiturates are present but does not measure the exact amount in your system.

Why is this test ordered?

This test may be ordered for various reasons, including routine drug screening for employment, monitoring patients on barbiturate therapy, checking for drug compliance, or evaluating suspected drug misuse. It may also be used in emergency settings when rapid detection of drug exposure is needed.

Understanding your results

Results are typically reported as either 'Positive' (barbiturates detected) or 'Negative' (no barbiturates detected). A positive result indicates the presence of barbiturates but does not specify the type or amount. If the initial screen is positive, a confirmatory test is usually performed to verify the result and identify the specific barbiturate present.

Reference range

Negative (cutoff typically 20-50 ng/mL depending on assay; presence above cutoff is reported as positive)N/A

Specimen: serum

Do not eat, drink, smoke, or use oral hygiene products for at least 10-30 minutes prior to specimen collection. Rinse mouth with water only if needed. Inform clinician of all prescription and over-the-counter medications taken.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

How long do barbiturates stay detectable in saliva?
Barbiturates can typically be detected in saliva for 1-5 days after use, depending on the specific drug, dosage, and individual metabolism. Short-acting barbiturates may be detectable for shorter periods, while long-acting ones may remain detectable longer.
Can a positive result mean I took barbiturates accidentally?
Certain foods, supplements, or medications are not expected to cause a positive barbiturate result. However, some prescription medications or over-the-counter products may potentially cause false positives. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications and substances you have taken.
Will I need additional testing after a positive screen?
Yes, if the screening test is positive, a confirmatory test (usually GC-MS or LC-MS/MS) is typically performed to verify the result and identify the specific barbiturate present. This confirmatory testing is more specific and accurate.
Is the saliva test accurate?
Saliva screening tests are generally reliable for detecting the presence of barbiturates, but they are considered preliminary. They have high sensitivity but may occasionally produce false positives or negatives. Confirmation testing is important for definitive results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Barbiturate ScreeningSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - Barbiturates, Oral FluidSource
  3. 3
    LabCorp - Barbiturates Screen, Oral FluidSource

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