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Hexobarbital in urine (mass concentration)

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

This test measures the presence of hexobarbital, a barbiturate drug, in your urine. It may be used to assess drug exposure, detect intoxication, or monitor compliance with treatment.

Quick summary

["This test helps determine if you’ve been exposed to certain medications or substances."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
27165-0
Short code
Hexobarbital Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
Hexobarbital Ur-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’ve been exposed to barbiturates (e.g., through accidental ingestion, intentional misuse, or as part of a poisoning evaluation). It could also be used in legal or forensic contexts to assess substance presence in urine samples.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed. You may be asked to provide a urine sample in a sterile container, often collected at a lab or clinic. Avoiding certain foods, drinks, or medications that could interfere with results is not usually required for this test.

What the Results Mean

Results are qualitative (positive/negative) rather than quantitative, indicating whether hexobarbital was detected in your urine. A positive result suggests recent exposure, but it does not specify the amount or duration of exposure.

Common Causes of Positive Results

Positive results are most commonly linked to barbiturate use, such as from prescribed sedatives, over-the-counter medications, or illicit substances. It may also appear in cases of accidental poisoning or drug testing for legal or employment purposes.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Hexobarbital urine test

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means hexobarbital was detected in your urine, suggesting recent exposure to this drug. This could be due to intentional use, accidental ingestion, or other circumstances. Your healthcare provider will discuss next steps based on your symptoms and medical history.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on the lab’s processing time. Follow-up with your provider if you have concerns about the outcome.
Can I drink alcohol before the test?
No, avoid alcohol and other substances that might interfere with urine collection or test accuracy. Stick to clear liquids and rest before providing the sample unless instructed otherwise.
  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