Barbiturate (Secobarbital) Screening in Serum/Plasma
This test measures the presence of secobarbital, a type of barbiturate medication, in your blood. It may be used to check for drug levels after you’ve taken this medication.
["This test helps monitor your dose of secobarbital and ensures it stays within safe levels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26679-1
- Short code
- Secobarbital Vitf-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Secobarbital Vitf-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’ve been prescribed secobarbital (a sedative) to manage conditions like seizures, insomnia, or anxiety. They might also order it if you’ve been exposed to barbiturates (e.g., in poisoning cases) or if you’re experiencing unusual symptoms that could be linked to drug levels.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re taking this medication regularly, your provider may want to check levels at specific times (e.g., before or after doses).
What the Test Results Mean
Results are qualitative (positive/negative) rather than numeric. A positive result means secobarbital is detected in your blood, which could indicate recent use or overdose. Your provider will interpret this in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
Possible Effects of High or Low Levels
High levels of secobarbital can cause drowsiness, confusion, slowed breathing, or even coma. Very low or absent levels may suggest the drug has cleared your system too quickly or wasn’t absorbed properly.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This screening test is critical for monitoring patients on barbiturates to prevent toxicity (e.g., overdose) or ensure adequate medication levels. It’s especially important for those with liver/kidney issues, as these organs help break down barbiturates. Results guide dosing adjustments or medical interventions.
Short name
Barbiturate Level (Screen)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
How long will it take to get my results?
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