Benzodiazstlmcnt
This test measures benzodiazepine medications in stool samples to help monitor drug use or detect substance exposure.
{"A stool sample is collected to detect benzodiazepine medications in your digestive system","The test helps healthcare providers monitor medication compliance or detect drug misuse","Results show whether specific benzodiazepines are present and in what amounts","Sample collection is simple and can be done at home using the provided collection kit"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 27063-7
- Short code
- BENZS
- Synonyms
- Benzodiaz Stl-mCnt
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- stool
- Container
- Clean, dry, leak-proof stool collection container without preservative; sterile wide-mouth container preferred
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) or Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) following solid-phase or liquid-liquid extraction
- Specimen volume
- 5-10 grams of random stool specimen (minimum 1-2 grams)
- Stability
- Refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): up to 30 days for long-term storage. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- TAT
- 48–120 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Benzodiazepine Stool Test detects the presence and amount of benzodiazepine medications in your stool sample. Benzodiazepines are a class of prescription sedatives commonly used to treat anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and muscle spasms. Examples include diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), and clonazepam (Klonopin).
Why do I need this test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test for several reasons: to monitor if you are taking your prescribed medication as directed, to check for accidental or intentional overdose, to detect misuse or abuse of benzodiazepine medications, or as part of a comprehensive toxicology screening. This test may also be used when other sample types (like blood or urine) are not available.
How is the sample collected?
You will receive a special collection kit from your healthcare provider or laboratory. The sample should be collected in a clean, dry container. Avoid mixing the stool with urine or toilet water. A small sample (about the size of a walnut) is usually sufficient. Label the container with your name, date of birth, and the collection date. Store the sample as directed—usually in a refrigerator—until you can deliver it to the laboratory.
Are there any risks or side effects?
There are no physical risks or side effects from the test itself. Stool sample collection is non-invasive and painless. However, it is important to follow the collection instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.
How long until I get my results?
Results are typically available within 3 to 7 business days, depending on the laboratory. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results or discuss them at your next appointment.
Reference range
Reference range not established; results reported as detected/not detected with quantitative mass/mass ratio. Clinical interpretation required in context of patient history and exposure.N/A
No special preparation required. Patient should collect a random stool specimen. Avoid contamination with urine or water. Dietary supplements and certain foods do not typically interfere, but inform the laboratory of all current medications.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Can I eat or drink before the test?
What happens if I miss a dose of my benzodiazepine medication before the test?
Will the test show all types of benzodiazepines?
How long do benzodiazepines stay detectable in stool?
Is this test confidential?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
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.
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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy