Pseudoephedrine in Urine (Quantitative)
This test measures the presence of pseudoephedrine, a decongestant found in some over-the-counter cold and allergy medications, in your urine.
["Detects recent use of certain cold medications."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73185-1
- Short code
- Pseudoephedrine ind plt IgG SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- Pseudoephedrine ind plt IgG SerPl Ql FC
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to assess recent use of pseudoephedrine-containing products, such as for monitoring substance use, evaluating symptoms related to medication ingestion, or investigating potential drug interactions or side effects.
What Does the Result Mean?
Results are typically reported in micrograms per milliliter (µg/mL) or milligrams per liter (mg/L). A positive result indicates the presence of pseudoephedrine in your urine, which may suggest recent consumption of the medication.
Sample Collection and Preparation
You will provide a urine sample, usually collected in a clean container. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for proper collection to ensure accurate results.
Common Uses and Contexts
This test is often used in workplace drug testing, legal investigations, or by healthcare providers to evaluate symptoms linked to pseudoephedrine exposure, such as nervousness, increased heart rate, or difficulty sleeping.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Pseudoephedrine is a sympathomimetic amine used primarily for its decongestant and antihistamine effects. Elevated levels in urine may indicate recent ingestion of medications like Sudafed or similar products. While generally safe when used as directed, misuse or excessive use can lead to adverse effects such as elevated blood pressure, heart palpitations, or anxiety. This test helps monitor compliance with treatment plans, assess potential toxicity, or investigate suspected misuse.
Short name
Urine Pseudoephedrine
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I take any medications before this test?
Is there any preparation needed before the 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