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Urine Drug Screen, Qualitative

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

A urine test that checks for the presence of selected drugs or their metabolites. It does not measure how much of a drug is in the body.

Quick summary

["This test can show whether selected drugs were recently used, but a positive result does not by itself indicate impairment or current intoxication."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
67034-9
Short code
Used harder drug nRate DYS
Synonyms
Used harder drug nRate DYS
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
denver-youth-survey
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

What is this test?

A urine drug screen is a laboratory test that looks for selected drugs or their breakdown products in urine. Results are generally reported as detected or not detected.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used in occupational or school screening, medical evaluation, substance-use treatment, or when a clinician needs information about possible drug exposure.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is tested in the laboratory, often with an initial screening method. Any positive screening result may be confirmed using a more specific laboratory method before it is considered final.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow any instructions provided by the healthcare professional or workplace. Tell the laboratory about all medicines, supplements, and other substances you have used because some can affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A positive result means that a tested drug or its metabolite was detected in the urine. Detection can vary with the substance, dose, timing, metabolism, and fluid intake. Results should be interpreted with the clinical context and, when necessary, confirmed by a specific laboratory method.

Short name

Urine drug screen

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I am intoxicated?
Not necessarily. Urine testing can detect substances used some time before the sample was collected, so a positive result does not always show current impairment.
Can prescription medicines cause a positive result?
Yes. Some prescription and over-the-counter medicines can cause certain screens to be positive. Inform the laboratory and your clinician about everything you have taken.
How long can a drug remain detectable?
The detection window depends on the drug, dose, frequency of use, metabolism, hydration, and the laboratory method. Your clinician or testing laboratory can provide substance-specific guidance.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

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