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Secobarbital [Mass concentration] in Urine by Confirmatory method

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

This test measures the amount of secobarbital, a barbiturate sedative, in a urine sample using a confirmatory laboratory method. It is typically used to detect or confirm recent use of the drug.

Quick summary

["A positive result generally indicates that secobarbital or its breakdown products were present in the urine at the time of collection."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
19696-4
Short code
Secobarbital CtO Ur Scn-mCnc
Synonyms
Secobarbital CtO Ur Scn-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
screen
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 This Test Measures

Secobarbital is a barbiturate medication that slows activity in the brain and nervous system. This test detects and measures the amount of secobarbital in urine, usually after an initial screening test suggests the drug may be present. The confirmatory method provides a more precise and reliable result than a basic screening test.

Why the Test Is Performed

The test may be ordered as part of workplace or pre-employment drug testing, medication monitoring, or an evaluation for possible drug use or overdose. It can also help confirm the results of a preliminary urine drug screen. Your healthcare provider or testing program will explain the specific reason for your test.

How the Sample Is Collected

A urine sample is collected in a clean container, often at a laboratory, clinic, or collection site. Sometimes observed collection or chain-of-custody procedures are used for legal or employment-related testing. Follow any instructions you are given about timing and handling of the sample.

What Results Mean

A positive result suggests secobarbital was present in the urine when the sample was collected. A negative result suggests it was not detected, though timing of use, dose, and individual metabolism can affect results. Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider or testing program along with your history and other information; this test alone does not diagnose a medical condition.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Secobarbital, urine (confirmatory)

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I took secobarbital?
A positive confirmatory result usually indicates secobarbital or related breakdown products were present in the urine. However, interpretation depends on the testing context and should be reviewed by the ordering provider or program, since factors like timing and metabolism can affect results.
How long can secobarbital be detected in urine?
Detection windows vary based on dose, how often the drug was used, individual metabolism, and fluid intake, so no single timeframe applies to everyone. Your provider or testing program can give guidance specific to your situation.
Can this test diagnose a medical condition on its own?
No. A urine secobarbital test indicates whether the drug was detected; it does not by itself diagnose a condition. Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider alongside your medical history, symptoms, and other tests.
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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