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Substance Use Screening (Urinary Opioid)

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

This test checks for the presence of opioids (such as heroin, prescription painkillers, or illegal street opioids) in your urine. It helps assess recent use and supports efforts to manage substance use disorders.

Quick summary

This test helps track opioid use and supports treatment planning for substance use recovery.

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
95489-1
Short code
HAVEYOUEVERTRIEDANDFAILEDTOCONTROLCUTDOWNORSTOPUSINGSTREETOPIOIDS
Synonyms
—
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
nida
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

This test detects opioids in your urine, including both prescription medications and illicit substances. The result may indicate recent use, which can inform healthcare decisions about treatment or support services.

Why It’s Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re struggling with opioid use, as part of a broader evaluation for substance use disorders, or to monitor progress in treatment programs.

How the Test Works

A small urine sample is collected and analyzed using a sensitive chemical test. The result is qualitative (yes/no) for the presence of opioids, not a specific quantity.

What to Expect

You’ll likely be asked to provide a urine sample in a private area. The test is quick and painless. Results are typically available within hours or the next day.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: This test helps healthcare providers identify opioid use, assess risk factors for addiction, and tailor treatment plans. It may also be used in legal, employment, or recovery settings to monitor compliance with sobriety requirements.

Short name

None

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within a few hours to a day, depending on the lab’s processing time. Your provider will contact you once they’re ready to discuss the findings.
Can false positives or negatives happen?
Yes, false results can occur due to recent medical treatments, certain medications, or other substances. If your result is unclear, your provider may recommend retesting or additional evaluation.
What if I’ve recently taken opioids?
Opioids may be detectable in urine for several days after use. If you suspect recent use, discuss your concerns with your provider—they may adjust testing timing or recommend follow-up steps.
  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