Cannabinoid Substance Concentration (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the presence of cannabinoids, the active compounds found in cannabis, in your blood. It helps assess recent cannabis use.
["This test screens for recent cannabis exposure by detecting cannabinoids in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 8179-4
- Short code
- THCSCN
- Synonyms
- Cannabinoids Usub Ql Scn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top vacutainer tube (no anticoagulant) or serum separator tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- screen
- CPT
- 80307
- SNOMED
- 395112001
- Specimen volume
- 5-10 mL of whole blood yielding 2-4 mL serum
- Stability
- Serum stable for 24 hours at room temperature (20-25°C), 7 days refrigerated (2-8°C), and up to 30 days frozen (-20°C or below)
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 500
- Icterus max
- 25
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like dizziness, confusion, or altered mood that could be linked to recent cannabis use. It may also be used in workplace drug testing or legal cases involving suspected cannabis impairment.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in your arm. If you’re taking medications, let your provider know as some may affect test results.
What the Results Mean
Results show the concentration of cannabinoids in your blood. High levels may indicate recent cannabis use, while lower or absent levels suggest no recent exposure. Interpretation depends on clinical context, such as symptoms or timing since last use.
Common Uses and Limitations
This test is primarily used for screening, not confirming long-term cannabis use. It reflects recent exposure within hours to days. Cannabinoids break down quickly, so levels drop over time.
Reference range
Negative (not detected) for cannabinoids and metabolitesN/A
No special preparation required. Patient should be informed that results may be used for medical, legal, or employment purposes depending on context.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Cannabinoid Level (Screen)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my test results?
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
What if my results are positive?
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