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Cannabinoid (THC and CBD) Urine Screen

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

This test detects the presence of cannabinoids, the active compounds found in marijuana, in your urine. It helps determine if you’ve recently used cannabis.

Quick summary

["This test checks for recent marijuana use via urine samples."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
52954-5
Short code
CANNU
Synonyms
Cannabinoids Ur-sCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile, leak-proof urine collection container; preservative-free or with sodium fluoride preservative for forensic collections
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
50
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
Immunoassay screening (e.g., EMIT, ELISA) with confirmation by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) or Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
CPT
80307
SNOMED
28029005
Specimen volume
30-50 mL random urine specimen; minimum 10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours for screening; Refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): up to 30 days for confirmatory testing. Store at 2-8°C if not analyzed within 24 hours.
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–72 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’ve been suspected of using marijuana, if you’re required for work or legal reasons, or if you’re experiencing symptoms that could be linked to cannabis use, such as changes in mood, memory, or physical coordination. Some employers or schools conduct these screens as part of their policies.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll provide a urine sample in a private setting, similar to other routine urine tests. No special preparation is needed, but avoid drinking excessive fluids before the test to ensure a concentrated sample. If you’ve recently used cannabis, results may be positive even if you’ve stopped using it.

What the Results Mean

A positive result means cannabinoids were detected in your urine, indicating recent use. A negative result means no detectable cannabinoids were found. The test does not specify which cannabinoids (like THC or CBD) are present, but it confirms recent exposure. Results are qualitative, meaning they only indicate presence or absence, not the exact amount.

Possible Causes of Positive Results

A positive result can occur from recent marijuana use, but it may also be influenced by factors like metabolism, body fat levels, or the type of cannabis consumed. Some medications or supplements can sometimes affect test results, though this is rare for cannabinoids.

Reference range

Negative: < 50 ng/mL (screening cutoff, SAMHSA-recommended). Quantitative results reported in ng/mL or ng/mol creatinine equivalent. Positive findings should be confirmed by a definitive method.N/A

Specimen: urine

No special patient preparation required. Patients should be informed that certain prescription medications, hemp-containing foods, and CBD products may cause positive results. Informed consent may be required for workplace or legal drug screening.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Cannabinoid Test

Frequently asked questions

What Does a Positive or Negative Result Indicate?
A positive result suggests recent cannabis use and may warrant further evaluation by your healthcare provider, especially if you’re experiencing health concerns or legal consequences. A negative result means no detectable cannabinoids were found, but it doesn’t guarantee you’ve never used cannabis—results can vary based on how recently you used it.
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the lab’s processing time. Follow-up instructions from your healthcare provider will guide you on what to do next if you receive a positive result.
Can I Use Cannabis Before This Test?
Avoid using cannabis (including smoking, vaping, or ingesting) for at least 24 to 48 hours before the test, as cannabinoids can remain in your system for several days. If you’re unsure about your last use, discuss it with your healthcare provider to help interpret results accurately.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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