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4ohxylazineurqlcfm

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

This test checks for the presence of 4-hydroxy xylazine, a breakdown product of xylazine, in your urine sample.

Quick summary

{"Detects exposure to xylazine, a veterinary sedative sometimes abused by humans","Uses a confirmatory method for accurate results","Commonly used in drug testing and forensic analysis"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
103639-1
Short code
4-OH-XYL-UR
Synonyms
4OH-Xylazine Ur Ql Cfm
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile polypropylene urine collection cup with leak-proof lid
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 13 years
Method
confirm
CPT
80307
SNOMED
721066008
Specimen volume
Minimum 10 mL, preferred 20-50 mL
Stability
Room temperature (20-25°C): 5-7 days; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 2-4 weeks; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30+ days. Protect from light.
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test looks for 4-hydroxy xylazine in your urine. 4-hydroxy xylazine is a metabolite, meaning it is what your body produces when it breaks down xylazine. Xylazine is a medication originally designed for use in animals as a sedative and pain reliever. However, it has been increasingly found in illicit drug supplies and may be used by humans, sometimes without their knowledge.

How is this test performed?

A urine sample is collected and sent to a laboratory for analysis. This test uses a confirmatory method, which is a highly accurate testing technique that can definitively identify the presence of 4-hydroxy xylazine. Unlike screening tests, confirmatory methods are more specific and reliable.

Why might I need this test?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if they suspect you have been exposed to xylazine. This could be part of a routine drug screening, an investigation of unexplained symptoms, or in legal/forensic situations. Xylazine use can cause serious health effects including drowsiness, slow heart rate, low blood pressure, and in severe cases, skin wounds or death.

What do the results mean?

A 'positive' result means that 4-hydroxy xylazine was detected in your urine, indicating recent exposure to xylazine. A 'negative' result means no 4-hydroxy xylazine was detected. It is important to discuss your results with your healthcare provider, who can explain what they mean for your specific situation.

Reference range

Not Detected - Negative result indicates absence of 4-hydroxy Xylazine metabolite in urine at the detection thresholdN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation required. Patient should provide a clean-catch urine sample. Inform laboratory of any medications or substances recently consumed. Avoid excessive fluid intake before collection as it may dilute the specimen.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

How long does xylazine stay in my urine?
Xylazine and its metabolites can typically be detected in urine for 2-4 days after use, though this can vary based on factors like dosage, frequency of use, and individual metabolism.
Is this test part of standard drug screens?
Not always. Standard drug panels typically test for common substances like opioids, amphetamines, and cannabinoids. This test is specifically ordered when there is a suspicion of xylazine exposure and requires specialized confirmatory testing.
What are the health risks of xylazine exposure?
Xylazine can cause severe drowsiness, dizziness, slow heart rate, low blood pressure, respiratory depression, and skin ulcers that may become infected. When combined with other depressants like fentanyl or alcohol, the risk of life-threatening complications increases significantly.
Can I test positive from accidental exposure?
It is possible to test positive from secondary exposure in certain circumstances, though this is less common. If you believe your result may be due to accidental exposure, discuss this with your healthcare provider.
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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