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6mamctourscnmcnc

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

A urine test to detect 6-monoacetylmorphine (6-MAM), a specific marker for heroin use.

Quick summary

{"6-MAM is a specific breakdown product of heroin in the body","This test is used to identify recent heroin use, typically detectable for 24-48 hours after use","A positive result indicates heroin use within the past 1-2 days","The test is performed on a urine sample and provides yes/no results based on a cutoff threshold","Results should be interpreted by healthcare professionals in the context of clinical situation"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
19323-5
Short code
6-MAM
Synonyms
6MAM CtO Ur Scn-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile, graduated collection cup or clean, dry container
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
10
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
screen
CPT
80102
SNOMED
413583009
Specimen volume
10-50 mL preferred
Stability
Room temperature: 24-72 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The 6-MAM urine screen test detects the presence of 6-monoacetylmorphine (6-MAM) in your urine. 6-MAM is a unique metabolite produced when your body breaks down heroin (also known as diamorphine or diacetylmorphine). Unlike other opioid medications, 6-MAM is only produced when heroin is metabolized, making it a highly specific marker for heroin use.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected, typically in a clean container provided by the testing facility. The sample is then analyzed using immunoassay techniques to detect whether the 6-MAM concentration exceeds a predetermined cutoff threshold. If the level is above the cutoff, the result is reported as positive; if below, it is reported as negative.

What does the result mean?

A positive result indicates that heroin was likely used within the past 24-48 hours. A negative result means either no heroin was used, or use occurred beyond the detection window. It's important to note that this is a screening test, and positive results may require confirmation with more specific testing methods like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).

Do I need to prepare for the test?

No special preparation is typically required. You should inform your healthcare provider about any medications or substances you have recently taken, as certain substances may potentially affect test results. Bring any required testing authorization forms if applicable.

Reference range

Negative (< 10 ng/mL cutoff)N/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation required. Patient should inform collector of any medications or supplements being taken. Hydration status may affect urine concentration.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings2

Frequently asked questions

Will this test show if I used other opioid painkillers?
No. 6-MAM is specifically produced from heroin metabolism. Other opioids like morphine, codeine, oxycodone, or fentanyl do not produce 6-MAM. Therefore, a positive 6-MAM result specifically indicates heroin use, not other opioid medications.
How long after using heroin can it be detected?
6-MAM is typically detectable in urine for approximately 24-48 hours after heroin use, though this varies based on individual metabolism, dose, and kidney function. It has a shorter detection window than some other drug tests, which is why timing of the test is important.
Can a positive result be wrong (false positive)?
While the 6-MAM test is highly specific for heroin, false positives can theoretically occur due to laboratory error, sample contamination, or interference from certain substances. For this reason, positive screening results are typically confirmed using more precise methods like GC-MS or LC-MS/MS before final interpretation.
Do I need a doctor's order for this test?
This depends on the purpose of testing. For medical purposes, a healthcare provider's order is required. For workplace, legal, or probation testing, the testing may be ordered by an employer, attorney, or probation officer according to applicable regulations.
What happens if my test is positive?
If the screening test is positive, the sample is typically sent for confirmatory testing. The final interpretation and any consequences depend on why the test was ordered—for medical treatment, it helps guide care; for legal/probation purposes, the result may have legal implications; for employment testing, it may affect employment status according to applicable policies.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Drug TestingSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - 6-MAMSource
  3. 3
    SAMHSA - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services AdministrationSource

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