JWH-018 Pentanoate (Qualitative) in Urine by Liquid Chromatography
This test looks for a metabolite of the synthetic cannabinoid JWH-018, specifically its pentanoate form, in a urine sample. It is used to help detect recent use of this designer drug.
["A positive result suggests exposure to a synthetic cannabinoid related to JWH-018, while a negative result does not completely rule out use."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72461-7
- Short code
- JWH-018 pentanoate Ur Ql Cfm
- Synonyms
- JWH-018 pentanoate Ur Ql Cfm
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- confirm
- 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
What This Test Measures
The test detects the pentanoate metabolite of JWH-018, a synthetic compound designed to mimic the effects of cannabis. Unlike natural cannabis compounds, these designer drugs may not be picked up by standard cannabis screening tests, so a specific test is needed.
Why It May Be Ordered
A healthcare provider or testing program may order this test when synthetic cannabinoid use is suspected, such as in workplace or clinical screening, or to investigate unexpected symptoms. It can help identify exposure that standard drug panels might miss.
How the Sample Is Collected
A urine sample is collected in a clean container. Because synthetic cannabinoids leave the body relatively quickly, timing of the collection can matter. No special preparation is usually required unless your provider says otherwise.
What Results Mean
A positive result indicates that the pentanoate metabolite was detected, suggesting recent use of this compound. A negative result means it was not detected at the testing threshold, but it does not guarantee no use, since the drug can clear from urine within days and small amounts may be missed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Detection of JWH-018 pentanoate supports recent exposure to this synthetic cannabinoid. Results should always be interpreted by a healthcare professional alongside the person's history and other findings, and confirmatory testing may be recommended before any conclusions are drawn.
Frequently asked questions
Can this test tell how much of the drug was used?
How long after use can this test stay positive?
Does a positive result mean the person used cannabis?
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