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Benzodiazsalqlcfm

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

This test checks for the presence of benzodiazepine drugs in your saliva to monitor medication use or detect potential drug abuse.

Quick summary

{"Detects benzodiazepine drugs in oral fluid sample","Used for medication monitoring and compliance checking","Non-invasive sample collection","Results help healthcare providers manage treatment","May be used in forensic or employment screening"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
72456-7
Short code
BENZSALCONF
Synonyms
Benzodiaz Sal Ql Cfm
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Saliva/oral fluid collection device (e.g., Quantisal, Intercept, or equivalent oral fluid collection tube with buffer)
Units
N/A
Ref low
1
Ref high
10
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–99 years
Method
confirm
CPT
80347
SNOMED
395124004
Specimen volume
1-2 mL of oral fluid (minimum 0.5 mL neat oral fluid prior to buffer addition)
Stability
Refrigerated (2-8°C) for up to 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or lower) for up to 30 days; Room temperature stability varies by collection device (typically 24-48 hours)
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Benzodiazepine Saliva Test is a laboratory test that detects the presence of benzodiazepine drugs in your saliva (oral fluid). Benzodiazepines are a class of prescription medications commonly used to treat anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and muscle spasms. Examples include diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), and alprazolam (Xanax). This test uses a confirmatory method to accurately identify which specific benzodiazepines may be present in your system.

How is the sample collected?

A saliva sample is collected by swabbing the inside of your mouth with a special collection device. The process is simple, quick, and non-invasive. You may be asked to avoid eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum for a certain period before sample collection to ensure accurate results. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Why might I need this test?

Your healthcare provider may order this test for several reasons: to monitor if you are taking your prescribed benzodiazepine medication as directed, to check for medication compliance, to evaluate suspected overdose, or to detect possible drug abuse. It may also be used in forensic settings or as part of employment screening programs.

What do the results mean?

A positive result indicates that benzodiazepine drugs were detected in your saliva. The confirmatory method can identify specific types of benzodiazepines. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results based on your medical history, prescribed medications, and the specific drugs detected. A negative result means no benzodiazepines were detected at the time of testing.

Reference range

Negative (cutoff: typically 1-10 ng/mL depending on specific benzodiazepine analyte and laboratory protocol)N/A

Specimen: serum

No fasting required. Patient should avoid eating, drinking, smoking, chewing gum, or using oral hygiene products for at least 10-30 minutes prior to specimen collection. Do not rinse mouth immediately before collection.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

How long do benzodiazepines stay detectable in saliva?
Benzodiazepines can typically be detected in saliva for 24-72 hours after last use, depending on the specific drug, dosage, and individual metabolism. Some longer-acting benzodiazepines may be detectable for longer periods.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Your healthcare provider may ask you to avoid eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum for 10-30 minutes before sample collection. Follow any specific instructions given by your provider or testing facility.
Can this test tell me how much medication I took?
No, this is a qualitative test that detects presence or absence of benzodiazepines. It does not measure the exact amount (quantify) of drug in your system. If quantification is needed, a blood test may be more appropriate.
Will prescription medications affect my results?
Certain prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements may potentially interfere with test results. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking before the test.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1-3 days, but may vary depending on the laboratory. Confirmatory testing may take longer than initial screening tests.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - BenzodiazepinesSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Drugs and Supplements: BenzodiazepinesSource
  3. 3
    Lab Tests Online - BenzodiazepinesSource

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