Blood Test: What It Is, How It Is Done, and What Your Results Mean

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

This test detects AB-CHMINACA, a synthetic cannabinoid compound, in urine to check for recent use of certain synthetic marijuana products.

Quick summary

{"Detects synthetic cannabinoid use (not natural marijuana)","Results show 'Present' or 'Not Detected'","Used for monitoring substance use treatment or compliance","Synthetic cannabinoids can be more potent and dangerous than natural marijuana"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC: 87494-1
Short code: AB-CHMINACA UR
Synonyms: AB-CHMINACA OH-cyclohexyl Ur Ql Cfm
Category: chemistry
Sample: urine
Container: Sterile urine container (60 mL capacity)
Units: N/A
Fasting: false
Population: adult
Sex: all
Age range: ≥ 18 years
Method: confirm
CPT: 80349
SNOMED: 122456000
Specimen volume: Minimum 10 mL, preferably 30-50 mL
Stability: Room temperature: 7 days; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 14 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days
Hemolysis max: 0
Lipemia max: 0
Icterus max: 0
TAT: 48–96 hours
Order: routine

This test looks for AB-CHMINACA hydroxycyclohexyl in your urine. AB-CHMINACA is a synthetic cannabinoid—a man-made chemical designed to produce effects similar to THC (the active ingredient in marijuana). Unlike natural marijuana, synthetic cannabinoids are created in laboratories and can be much more potent and unpredictable.

How is the test performed and how should I prepare for it?

A urine sample is collected and sent to a laboratory for testing. The confirmatory method used is highly specific and can accurately identify the presence of AB-CHMINACA metabolites. You do not need to prepare specially for this test, but you should inform your healthcare provider of any medications or supplements you are taking.

What do the results mean for my overall health?

Results are typically reported as 'Present' (or 'Detected') if AB-CHMINACA is found in your urine, indicating recent use of synthetic cannabinoid products. 'Not Detected' means no synthetic cannabinoid use was identified within the detection window. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and treatment goals.

Reference range

Not Detected (Cutoff: 5 ng/mL)N/A

Specimen: urine

Collect urine in a sterile, labeled container. Avoid contamination with cleansers or disinfectants. Patient should abstain from synthetic cannabinoid use for at least 7-14 days prior to testing, though detection windows vary by individual metabolism and usage pattern.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is primarily used in substance abuse monitoring programs, addiction treatment settings, and in forensic or legal contexts. It helps healthcare providers determine if a patient has used synthetic cannabinoid products, which are often illegal and can pose significant health risks including severe anxiety, psychosis, heart problems, and in rare cases, death.

Synthetic cannabinoids are not detected by standard marijuana tests, so this specific confirmatory test is needed. The test is important because synthetic cannabinoids are often marketed as 'legal' alternatives to marijuana but can be much more dangerous and are illegal in many jurisdictions.

Frequently asked questions

How long does AB-CHMINACA stay in urine?

Synthetic cannabinoids can typically be detected in urine for 2-7 days after use, depending on factors such as frequency of use, metabolism, and body fat percentage. Heavy or chronic use may result in longer detection windows.

Will this test detect natural marijuana (weed) use?

No. This test specifically detects AB-CHMINACA and related synthetic cannabinoids. It does not detect natural THC or marijuana use. If testing for natural marijuana is needed, a separate test would be required.

Can any medications or foods cause a false positive?

The confirmatory method used is highly specific and minimizes false positives. However, it is important to inform your healthcare provider about all substances you have used, including over-the-counter medications and supplements, as some substances may potentially interfere with test results.

Is this test legal?

The test itself is a legitimate medical test. However, the use of synthetic cannabinoids varies by jurisdiction. Many synthetic cannabinoids are illegal in the United States and other countries. This test is used for medical monitoring and treatment purposes, not for legal prosecution.

Sources

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