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Barbituratesurqlscn

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

This test detects the presence of barbiturates (sedative medications) in a urine sample to monitor medication use or screen for drug exposure.

Quick summary

{"Barbiturates are sedative medications used for anxiety, seizures, or sleep disorders","This urine test can detect barbiturate use within the past several days to weeks","Results may be positive due to prescription use or non-medical exposure","Follow-up testing (confirmatory testing) is recommended to confirm positive results"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
19270-8
Short code
URBARBS
Synonyms
Barbiturates Ur Ql Scn
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
screen
CPT
80307
SNOMED
320010003
Specimen volume
30 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Barbiturate Urine Screening Test detects whether barbiturates are present in your urine. Barbiturates are a class of medications that act as central nervous system depressants. They are typically prescribed for conditions such as anxiety, epilepsy, insomnia, or as sedation during medical procedures. This screening test uses chemical methods to identify the presence of barbiturate compounds or their metabolites in the urine.

Why is this test performed?

This test may be ordered for several reasons: (1) Monitoring patients who are prescribed barbiturate medications to ensure proper dosing and compliance, (2) Evaluating patients with symptoms of barbiturate overdose or toxicity, (3) Pre-employment or routine drug screening programs, (4) Checking for accidental exposure, particularly in children, or (5) Monitoring patients in substance abuse treatment programs.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected in a sterile container. The sample is then analyzed using immunoassay techniques, which detect antibodies that react with barbiturate compounds. If barbiturates or their breakdown products are present in sufficient concentrations, the test will show a positive result. If no barbiturates are detected or the concentration is below the detection threshold, the result will be negative.

What do the results mean?

A positive result indicates that barbiturates were detected in your urine. This could mean you have taken a prescribed barbiturate medication, or you may have been exposed to barbiturates unintentionally. A negative result means no barbiturates were detected above the test's cutoff level. It's important to note that screening tests can sometimes produce false positive or false negative results, which is why confirmatory testing is recommended for positive screens.

Reference range

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

Specimen: urine

No special preparation required. Patients should be informed that certain prescription and over-the-counter medications may produce positive results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings2

Frequently asked questions

How long do barbiturates stay in my urine?
The detection window varies depending on the specific barbiturate, dosage, frequency of use, and individual metabolism. Short-acting barbiturates like pentobarbital may be detectable for 2-4 days after use, while long-acting barbiturates like phenobarbital can be detected for 1-3 weeks or longer with regular use. Chronic or heavy use will extend the detection window.
Will a positive result mean I'm taking too much medication?
Not necessarily. A positive result simply indicates that barbiturates are present in your urine. It does not automatically mean you are taking too much. Your healthcare provider will interpret the result in the context of your prescribed dosage, symptoms, and overall clinical picture. If you are taking your medication as prescribed, a positive result is expected.
Can this test give false results?
Yes, like all screening tests, this can produce false positive or false negative results. False positives may occur due to cross-reactivity with other medications or substances. False negatives may occur if the test is performed too long after use, if the urine is diluted, or if the barbiturate level is below the test's detection threshold. Confirmatory testing (typically GC-MS or LC-MS/MS) is recommended to verify positive screening results.
Do I need to fast or prepare for this test?
No special preparation is typically required. You should continue taking your prescribed medications as directed unless your healthcare provider instructs otherwise. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and vitamins you are taking, as some substances may affect the test results.
Can secondhand exposure cause a positive result?
Secondhand exposure is generally unlikely to cause a positive result at typical screening cutoffs, except in cases of extreme close contact in poorly ventilated spaces, particularly with children or individuals with impaired metabolism. If you believe your result may be due to secondhand exposure, discuss this with your healthcare provider, who may recommend repeat testing or confirmatory testing.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Drug TestingSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - Barbiturates, Urine, ScreenSource
  3. 3
    LabCorp - Barbiturates, UrineSource
  4. 4
    Clinical Toxicology - Barbiturate DetectionSource

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