Substance concentration of cathinone in urine (e.g., for drug screening)
This test checks for the presence of cathinone, a synthetic stimulant, in your urine. Cathinone is sometimes used in illegal drugs.
["This test helps detect if cathinone was recently consumed."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 79141-8
- Short code
- CATHU
- Synonyms
- Cathinone Ur Ql Scn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof urine collection container, preferably with a tamper-evident seal; for chain-of-custody specimens, use a chain-of-custody container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- screen
- CPT
- 80307
- SNOMED
- 24838003
- Specimen volume
- Minimum 30 mL of random urine; 50-100 mL preferred for chain-of-custody or workplace drug testing
- Stability
- Ambient temperature: up to 48 hours; refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 7 days; frozen (-20°C or below): up to 30 days for forensic or retesting purposes
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
Your urine sample is tested for cathinone, a chemical found in certain illegal substances. The test detects whether cathinone is present, though it may not identify the specific drug used. Results are qualitative (positive or negative) rather than quantifying the exact amount.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’ve been suspected of using cathinone, if you’re under suspicion for drug-related issues, or if you’re part of a drug screening program (e.g., workplace, legal, or medical monitoring).
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a urine sample, typically collected in a clean container. Avoid drinking excessive fluids before the test to ensure a concentrated sample.
What to Expect During the Test
The test is quick and painless. A healthcare professional will collect your urine sample, which is then sent to a lab for analysis. Results are usually available within 24–48 hours.
Reference range
Negative (cutoff: typically 100 ng/mL or as defined by the performing laboratory)N/A
No special patient preparation is required. Patients should be informed that adulteration of the urine specimen may affect test results. Informed consent may be required depending on the purpose of testing (e.g., workplace, legal, or clinical).
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Urine cathinone screening
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
Does this test detect other drugs besides cathinone?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy