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Benzodiazmsmtur

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

A urine test that detects the presence of benzodiazepine medications in your system.

Quick summary

{"This test checks for benzodiazepines (anti-anxiety/sedative medications) in urine","Used to monitor medication compliance or detect drug misuse","Results are typically qualitative (positive/negative) rather than quantitative","Common benzodiazepines include diazepam, alprazolam, and lorazepam"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111407-3
Short code
BENZO-U
Synonyms
Benzodiaz Msmt Ur
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile, preservative-free urine collection cup; amber-colored container preferred to protect from light degradation
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
99
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
Immunoassay screening (e.g., EIA/EMIT) with confirmatory Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) or Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
CPT
80307
SNOMED
25076003
Specimen volume
30-50 mL (minimum 10 mL required for testing)
Stability
Refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): up to 1 month for confirmatory testing. Room temperature stability limited to 24-48 hours.
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Benzodiazepines Urine Test is a laboratory test that detects the presence of benzodiazepines in your urine. Benzodiazepines are a class of prescription medications commonly used to treat anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and muscle spasms. Examples include diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), and clonazepam (Klonopin).

This test uses immunoassay techniques to identify whether benzodiazepines or their metabolites are present in your urine sample. It is typically performed as a screening test and may be followed by confirmatory testing if needed.

Why is this test performed?

This test may be ordered for several reasons: 1) To monitor patient compliance with prescribed benzodiazepine therapy, 2) To detect potential misuse or abuse of benzodiazepines, 3) As part of a comprehensive drug screening panel, 4) To evaluate unexplained symptoms that may be related to benzodiazepine use, or 5) In emergency situations to help diagnose overdose.

How should I prepare for this test?

No special preparation is typically required for this test. Simply provide a urine sample as instructed by your healthcare provider. It is important to inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements, as certain substances may affect test results.

What do the results mean?

Results are typically reported as either positive or negative. A positive result indicates that benzodiazepines or their metabolites were detected in your urine. A negative result means no benzodiazepines were detected, or levels were below the test's detection threshold. Your healthcare provider will interpret your results in the context of your medical history and current medications.

Reference range

Negative: <100 ng/mL (screening cutoff may vary by laboratory and assay); Positive: ≥100 ng/mL indicates presence of benzodiazepines or metabolites. Confirmatory testing required for quantitative identification.N/A

Specimen: urine

No fasting required. Patients should be informed that certain prescription and over-the-counter medications may produce positive results. Direct observation of collection may be required for forensic or workplace drug testing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings2

Frequently asked questions

How long do benzodiazepines stay in urine?
Detection time varies depending on the specific benzodiazepine, dosage, frequency of use, and individual metabolism. Generally, most benzodiazepines can be detected in urine for 1-7 days after the last dose. Long-acting benzodiazepines like diazepam may be detectable longer than short-acting ones like alprazolam.
Can this test distinguish between different types of benzodiazepines?
Standard screening tests may not differentiate between specific benzodiazepines. If identification of the exact substance is needed, confirmatory testing using more specific methods like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) may be performed.
Will a positive result affect my employment?
This depends on the reason for testing and applicable laws. If you have a valid prescription for a benzodiazepine, you should inform the testing entity. Some employers and regulatory agencies have specific policies regarding prescription medications. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider or the entity requiring the test.
What can cause a false positive result?
Certain medications and substances may cause false positive results, including some antidepressants (sertraline, bupropion), antifungal medications (ketoconazole), and poppy seeds. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking before the test.
Is this test painful?
No, the urine test is completely painless. You will simply urinate into a collection container provided by the laboratory.
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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