Secobarbital [Mass concentration] in Urine by Confirmatory method
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.
["A positive result generally indicates that secobarbital or its breakdown products were present in the urine at the time of collection."]
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?
How long can secobarbital be detected in urine?
Can this test diagnose a medical condition on its own?
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