Serum morphine mass concentration (quantitative drug screening)
This test measures the amount of morphine present in your blood serum. It helps assess drug exposure, monitor treatment, or investigate suspected opioid use.
["This test checks for morphine levels in your blood to guide medical decisions about pain management or substance use."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 11244-1
- Short code
- Morphine Free SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Morphine Free SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re on morphine therapy to monitor your dose, check for drug interactions, or investigate symptoms like confusion, slow breathing, or unusual drowsiness. It can also be used in cases of suspected opioid overdose or to screen for illicit drug use.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw a blood sample. The process takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know beforehand.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to known reference ranges for morphine in blood, but these can vary by lab and patient factors. High levels may indicate recent opioid use, while very low levels could suggest poor absorption or metabolism. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
Possible Side Effects or Risks
The most common side effect is a small bruise or soreness at the injection site. Rarely, blood tests can cause allergic reactions or fainting. If you experience dizziness, nausea, or excessive bleeding, contact your provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Morphine levels are critical for managing pain, ensuring therapeutic doses, and detecting toxicity. Elevated levels may signal overdose, drug dependence, or impaired liver/kidney function. Low levels could indicate non-compliance or metabolic issues. This test helps guide adjustments to treatment plans, especially in chronic pain or addiction care.
Short name
Morphine Level (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my results?
What if my results are outside the normal range?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
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