Benzodiazepinespnlurscn

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

This test detects the presence of benzodiazepines in urine to help diagnose exposure to these commonly prescribed sedative medications.

Quick summary

{"This test checks if benzodiazepine medications are present in your urine","It is used to monitor medication compliance or investigate unexplained sedation","Results are typically available within a few days","Certain substances and medical conditions may affect test accuracy"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC: 94117-9
Short code: BENZUP
Synonyms: Benzodiazepines Pnl Ur Scn
Category: chemistry
Sample: serum
Container: Sterile, tamper-evident urine specimen container (with or without preservative depending on laboratory protocol)
Units: N/A
Fasting: false
Population: adult
Sex: all
Age range: 18–65 years
Method: screen
CPT: 80307
SNOMED: 19464-9
Specimen volume: 30-50 mL of random urine specimen; minimum 10 mL
Stability: Room temperature: 48 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days. For extended storage, freeze at -20°C or below.
Hemolysis max: 500
Lipemia max: 1000
Icterus max: 500
TAT: 4–24 hours
Order: routine

What is this test?

The Benzodiazepines Urine Screening Test is a diagnostic test that detects whether benzodiazepines (a class of prescription sedative medications) are present in your urine. Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and muscle spasms. Examples include diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), and clonazepam (Klonopin).

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected in a sterile container. You will be asked to provide a mid-stream urine sample. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed using immunoassay screening methods. If the initial screening test is positive, confirmatory testing may be performed to identify the specific benzodiazepine present.

How should I prepare for this test?

No special preparation is typically required. However, it is important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as some substances may affect test results. Certain prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and even some foods may potentially cause false-positive results.

What do the results mean?

A positive result indicates that benzodiazepines or their metabolites were detected in your urine. A negative result means no benzodiazepines were detected at the screening cutoff level. Your healthcare provider will interpret your results in the context of your medical history, symptoms, and prescribed medications.

Are there any risks or limitations?

This test carries minimal risks, primarily related to the urine collection process. Limitations include the possibility of false-positive or false-negative results. Certain medications, supplements, and medical conditions may interfere with the test. The test detects presence but not the amount of drug consumed.

Reference range

Negative (Cutoff: 200 ng/mL for most benzodiazepines; varies by analyte). Not detected in urine at standard screening cutoff levels.N/A

Specimen: serum

No fasting required. Patient should be informed that prescription and over-the-counter medications, including certain herbal supplements, may cause positive results. Collect specimen under chain-of-custody procedures if required for forensic or workplace testing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings2

Frequently asked questions

How long do benzodiazepines stay detectable in urine?

Detection time varies depending on the specific benzodiazepine, dosage, frequency of use, and individual metabolism. Generally, benzodiazepines can be detected in urine for 1-6 days after last use. Long-acting benzodiazepines like diazepam may be detectable longer than short-acting ones like alprazolam.

Can this test tell me how much benzodiazepine I took?

No, this is a qualitative test that only indicates presence or absence of benzodiazepines. It does not measure the quantity consumed. If quantitative analysis is needed, a separate blood test would be required.

Will a positive result show up on a employment drug screen?

Yes, if benzodiazepines are detected in the urine and the test is part of a drug screening panel, it may show as positive. However, if you have a valid prescription for benzodiazepines, you should inform the testing facility, as this may be considered legitimate medical use.

Can over-the-counter medications cause a false positive result?

Some over-the-counter medications and supplements may potentially cause false-positive results. It is important to disclose all medications and supplements you are taking to your healthcare provider before the test.

Do I need to fast before this test?

No fasting is required for a urine benzodiazepine screening test. You can eat and drink normally before providing the sample.

Sources

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