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Opiates, Urine — Screen

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

A urine screening test used to detect exposure to certain opiates or their metabolites. A positive screening result may require confirmatory testing.

Quick summary

["This urine screen can identify possible exposure to certain opioids, but a positive result should be confirmed when necessary."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
41465-6
Short code
Opiates/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Opiates/Creat Ur
Category
kidney
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

What is this test?

This is a screening test that checks a urine sample for certain opiates and their breakdown products. The substances detected can vary by laboratory method, and screening results alone do not establish exactly what was taken or when.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered by a healthcare professional in certain employment, clinical, legal, or substance-monitoring situations. It may also be used to monitor treatment for opioid use disorder.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is tested using an automated screening method, often an immunoassay. If the result is unexpectedly positive, the laboratory may perform a more specific confirmatory test before reporting a final result.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by the healthcare professional or laboratory. The sample may need to be collected under observation, and you should tell the clinician about any medicines or substances that could affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Opiate Screen

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean someone used opiates?
It indicates that the test detected certain opiate-related substances, but it cannot confirm the exact substance, dose, or timing. Confirmatory testing may be needed.
Can prescription medicines cause a positive result?
Yes. Some prescription pain medicines and other medications can be detected by opiate screens, depending on the substance and the laboratory method.
How soon after use is an opiate detected in urine?
Detection depends on the substance, dose, frequency of use, hydration, and other individual factors. The laboratory or healthcare professional should interpret the result in context.
  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