Synthetic Cannabinoid Substance Concentration (Urine)
This test checks for the presence of synthetic cannabinoids, which are chemically altered substances designed to mimic the effects of marijuana. These compounds can be used recreationally and may pose serious health risks.
["A urine screen for synthetic cannabinoids helps identify potential exposure or misuse."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72379-1
- Short code
- SYNCANN
- Synonyms
- Cannabinoids synthetic Spec Ql Scn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top serum tube or serum separator tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- screen
- CPT
- 80307
- SNOMED
- 410942007
- Specimen volume
- 5-10 mL of whole blood yielding 2-4 mL of serum
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days for longer storage
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Matters
Synthetic cannabinoids are often marketed as legal alternatives to marijuana but can be highly potent and dangerous. They may cause severe side effects like hallucinations, heart problems, or even overdose. This test helps healthcare providers assess exposure, especially in cases of suspected misuse or poisoning.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a urine sample in a private area of the lab or clinic. If you’re taking certain medications or have a medical condition, let your provider know beforehand.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means synthetic cannabinoids were detected in your urine. This could indicate recent use or exposure. A negative result means no detectable levels were found. Results are used to guide further evaluation or treatment.
Common Causes of Positive Results
Positive results may occur from recent synthetic cannabinoid use, either recreationally or unintentionally (e.g., contaminated products). Some people may also test positive if they’ve recently been exposed to the substance.
Reference range
Negative: No synthetic cannabinoids detected. Positive: Synthetic cannabinoids detected above the assay cutoff threshold.N/A
No special preparation required. Patients should be informed that synthetic cannabinoids are not detected by standard marijuana (THC) immunoassays and require specific testing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Urine Synthetic Cannabinoid Screen
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean for my health?
Can I use synthetic cannabinoids safely if my test is negative?
How long might it take to get my results back?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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