Serum or Plasma Substance Concentration for Sympathomimetic Drugs (Screening)
This test measures certain chemicals in your blood that can mimic the effects of the body’s natural fight-or-flight response, such as adrenaline. These substances can come from over-the-counter medications, supplements, or illegal drugs.
["This screening helps identify if you’ve used sympathomimetic substances that may affect your heart, blood pressure, or nervous system."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 29656-6
- Short code
- Sympathomimetics Ur Ql
- Synonyms
- Sympathomimetics Ur Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’ve experienced symptoms like rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, anxiety, or unusual energy levels. It could also be done if you’re suspected of using substances that affect your nervous system, such as certain stimulants or medications.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, which is typically drawn from a vein in your arm. If you’re tested for urine, you may need to collect a sample at home or in a clinic.
What the Test Results Mean
Positive results indicate the presence of sympathomimetic substances, which may require further evaluation by a healthcare professional. Negative results mean these substances were not detected in your sample at the time of testing.
Common Symptoms Linked to Positive Results
Sympathomimetics can cause symptoms like increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, restlessness, or difficulty sleeping. If you experience these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Sympathomimetics Screen
Frequently asked questions
What triggers this test?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I drink alcohol before this 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