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Methadone and Methadone Metabolite (EDDP), Urine

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

This urine test detects methadone and its major metabolite, EDDP. It may be used for medication monitoring, pain-management follow-up, or toxicology screening.

Quick summary

["Detecting methadone and EDDP in urine can show recent methadone exposure, but results must be interpreted with timing and clinical context."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
104676-2
Short code
Mthlphend & A-Phnl-2-Pprdn pnl Ur
Synonyms
Mthlphend & A-Phnl-2-Pprdn pnl Ur
Category
liver
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

What is this test?

This test measures methadone and a metabolite called EDDP in urine. Methadone is a prescription medicine used to treat pain and opioid use disorder, while EDDP is formed as the body processes methadone.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test to monitor methadone treatment, check for unexpected exposure, or evaluate a concern involving opioid use. It may also be part of workplace, court-ordered, or other drug testing.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory for methadone and EDDP. Some tests provide a qualitative result, such as detected or not detected, while others may also report a concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory or clinician. Fasting is usually not required, and you should not change your methadone dose unless your prescriber tells you to do so.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Methadone/EDDP

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive urine methadone test mean?
It means methadone was detected in the urine, which can reflect prescribed use or another source of exposure. Your clinician can interpret it using the test purpose, timing, medication history, and other findings.
Why is EDDP measured with methadone?
EDDP is a major metabolite of methadone and can help show that the body has processed the medication. It may remain detectable for longer than methadone itself.
Can this test show how much methadone I took?
Not always. Some urine tests are qualitative and only indicate whether the substance was detected, so the result cannot be used to determine the exact dose taken.
  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