Barbiturate (Secobarbital) Concentration, Urine
This test measures the presence of secobarbital, a type of barbiturate drug, in your urine. It helps detect recent use for medical or legal purposes.
["This test checks for recent exposure to sedative drugs that may affect your health or legal status."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 19697-2
- Short code
- Secobarbital CtO Ur Cfm-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Secobarbital CtO Ur Cfm-mCnc
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of drug use, such as drowsiness, confusion, or unusual behavior. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for substance exposure, such as after an accident, during a job screening, or as part of a treatment plan for addiction.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may collect a urine sample at home or at a lab, depending on your provider’s instructions. If done at a lab, you’ll likely be asked to provide a urine sample in a sterile container.
How the Test Works
The test uses a specialized urine screening method to detect the chemical signature of secobarbital. Results are qualitative (positive or negative) rather than quantifying the exact amount present.
What the Results Mean
A positive result indicates the presence of secobarbital in your urine, suggesting recent use. A negative result means no detectable amount was found. Follow-up tests (like a urine drug confirmation test) may be needed for further evaluation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Urine Barbiturate Screen
Frequently asked questions
Barbiturates like secobarbital are central nervous system depressants that can impair judgment, coordination, and breathing. Prolonged or high levels may pose serious risks, including overdose or addiction. This test helps monitor exposure for medical, legal, or treatment-related reasons.
If you have a positive result, your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests, such as a urine drug confirmation test, to identify the specific substance and assess your health.
If you’re concerned about drug use or exposure, talk to your doctor. They can provide guidance on next steps, including whether further testing or treatment is needed.
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