Barbituratesstlql
This test detects the presence of barbiturates (sedative medications) in your stool sample.
{"Barbiturates are sedative-hypnotic drugs used for anesthesia, seizure control, and sleep disorders","This test helps detect barbiturate use or exposure through stool sample analysis","Results can indicate medication adherence, misuse, or accidental exposure"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12358-8
- Short code
- BARB-S
- Synonyms
- Barbiturates Stl Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- stool
- Container
- Clean, dry, leak-proof stool collection container with secure lid (no preservative)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 3.5
- Ref high
- 7.2
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- Immunoassay (qualitative) or Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) confirmation
- CPT
- 80307
- SNOMED
- 26961009
- Specimen volume
- 5-10 grams of stool (approximately 1-2 tablespoons)
- Stability
- Refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): up to 30 days; Room temperature (15-25°C): up to 24 hours
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Barbiturates test is a laboratory analysis performed on a stool (fecal) sample to detect the presence of barbiturates. Barbiturates are a class of central nervous system depressant medications that were historically used as sedatives, hypnotics, and anticonvulsants. Examples include phenobarbital, pentobarbital, and secobarbital.
How is the test performed?
A stool sample is collected in a sterile container provided by your healthcare provider. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where it undergoes immunoassay or chromatography analysis to detect barbiturate compounds or their metabolites. The test results are typically reported as 'Positive' (barbiturates detected) or 'Negative' (no barbiturates detected).
Why might I need this test?
Your doctor may order this test for several reasons: to monitor patients taking barbiturate medications for compliance, to investigate unexplained symptoms potentially related to barbiturate exposure, to detect accidental ingestion (especially in children), or to evaluate cases of suspected drug misuse or overdose.
Reference range
NCBI: Uric Acid Male 3.5-7.2 mg/dL; Female 2.5-6.8 mg/dLN/A
No special patient preparation required. Patient should collect a random stool specimen in a clean, dry container avoiding contamination with urine or water. Inform the laboratory of any medications being taken prior to collection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
How should I prepare for this test?
How long does it take to get results?
Can this test tell how much barbiturate I took?
Will a positive result show up on a drug test for employment?
What should I do if my result is positive?
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