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Barbituratesurscnc

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

This test detects barbiturate drugs in your urine to monitor medication use or screen for drug abuse.

Quick summary

{"Barbiturates are sedative-hypnotic drugs prescribed for anxiety, sleep disorders, or epilepsy","The test uses a urine sample to detect the presence and concentration of barbiturates","It is commonly used for medication monitoring, workplace drug screening, or addiction evaluation","Results help healthcare providers ensure proper dosing or identify misuse","Positive results may require confirmation with more specific testing methods"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
52956-0
Short code
BARBU
Synonyms
Barbiturates Ur-sCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile, leak-proof urine container without preservative; preferred specimen container is a screw-cap plastic urine cup
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
200
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
Immunoassay (screen) with Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry or Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (confirmation)
CPT
80307
SNOMED
397701000
Specimen volume
10-30 mL of random urine; minimum 5 mL required for analysis
Stability
Ambient: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days. For confirmation by GC-MS, refrigerate or freeze promptly.
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Barbiturates test is a laboratory analysis performed on a urine sample to detect the presence of barbiturate drugs. Barbiturates are a class of central nervous system depressants that include medications such as phenobarbital, pentobarbital, and secobarbital. These drugs are typically prescribed for conditions like anxiety, insomnia, seizure disorders, and as anesthetic pre-medication. This test measures the amount of barbiturates in your urine, which can indicate whether a patient is taking their medication as prescribed, using unauthorized substances, or potentially misusing these controlled substances.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected in a sterile container, typically during a routine medical visit or at a designated collection site. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where it undergoes immunoassay screening followed by confirmatory testing if needed. Patients are usually asked to provide a clean-catch midstream urine sample to minimize contamination. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about any prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, or supplements you are taking, as certain substances may affect test results.

What do the results mean?

Results are typically reported as either positive (present) or negative (not detected). A positive result indicates that barbiturates were found in your urine sample. The interpretation depends on the clinical context: if you have a legitimate prescription for barbiturates, a positive result confirms you are taking your medication. If you do not have a prescription, a positive result may indicate unauthorized use or abuse. Your healthcare provider will discuss your results with you and determine if any additional testing or intervention is necessary.

Reference range

Negative: < 200 ng/mL (cutoff varies by laboratory); Positive: >= 200 ng/mL indicates presence of barbiturates or their metabolitesN/A

Specimen: urine

No fasting required. Patient should be informed about the test purpose and consent obtained if required. Collect specimen prior to administration of next dose if monitoring therapeutic compliance.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

How long do barbiturates stay detectable in urine?
The detection window varies depending on the specific barbiturate, dosage, frequency of use, and individual metabolism. Generally, short-acting barbiturates may be detectable for 2-4 days, while long-acting ones like phenobarbital can be detected for up to 2-3 weeks after last use. Chronic heavy use may extend the detection period.
Can this test produce false results?
Yes, certain factors can affect test accuracy. Some prescription medications, certain medical conditions, or dietary supplements may interfere with initial screening tests, potentially causing false positives or negatives. If a screening test is positive, confirmatory testing using more specific methods like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry is typically performed to verify the result.
Do I need to prepare for the test?
No special preparation is typically required. However, you should inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements. Bring a list of your current medications to your appointment. Stay hydrated before the test to help with urine sample collection.
Will my insurance cover this test?
Coverage depends on your insurance plan and the reason for testing. If the test is medically necessary for monitoring a prescribed medication or evaluating a medical condition, it is more likely to be covered. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to confirm coverage before the test.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Drug TestingSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - Barbiturates, UrineSource

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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