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Acetaminpropoxyphpnlurmcnc

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

A urine test that measures the levels of acetaminophen (pain reliever) and propoxyphene (opioid painkiller) in your urine to monitor medication use and detect potential overdose.

Quick summary

{"This test measures two pain medications in your urine","Acetaminophen is commonly found in over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol","Propoxyphene was withdrawn from the market in 2010 due to safety concerns","The test helps doctors monitor safe medication levels","It can detect both therapeutic use and potential overdose"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
53781-1
Short code
ACETPPX
Synonyms
Acetamin+Propoxyph Pnl Ur-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Clean sterile urine container (plastic, graduated, 50-100 mL capacity)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
1
Critical range
— – 150 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 13 years
Method
Immunoassay screening with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) confirmation
CPT
80307
SNOMED
431855005
Specimen volume
Minimum 10 mL, preferred 30-50 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 24-48 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Protect from light.
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Acetaminophen and Propoxyphene panel is a laboratory test that analyzes a urine sample to measure the presence and concentration of two pain-relieving medications: acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol or Tylenol) and propoxyphene (formerly sold as Darvon). This test is part of the clinical chemistry category and helps healthcare providers ensure patients are taking these medications at safe levels.

Why is this test performed?

Healthcare providers may order this test for several reasons: to monitor patients taking these medications for pain management, to check for medication adherence, to evaluate symptoms of potential overdose, or to investigate unexplained symptoms in patients using these drugs. The test is particularly important for patients on long-term pain management therapy.

How is the test done?

A urine sample is collected in a sterile container. The collection process is simple and non-invasive. Patients are typically asked to provide a clean-catch midstream urine sample. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed using specialized equipment to measure the mass/volume concentration of acetaminophen and propoxyphene.

What do the results mean?

Results are reported as mass/volume concentration in the urine. Therapeutic levels indicate the patient is taking the medication as prescribed. Detectable levels of acetaminophen are expected if the patient has recently taken this common pain reliever. However, propoxyphene is no longer prescribed in many countries due to safety concerns, so any detected level may require follow-up with the healthcare provider.

Reference range

Acetaminophen: Negative (< 1.0 mcg/mL); Propoxyphene: Negative (< 0.3 mcg/mL). Cutoff concentrations based on SAMHSA certification guidelines for workplace drug testing.N/A

Specimen: serum

Collect clean-catch midstream urine specimen. Patient should avoid excessive fluid intake before collection to prevent dilution. Inform laboratory of any prescribed medications, over-the-counter drugs, or supplements. Specimen may require chain-of-custody documentation for occupational testing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings2

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to prepare for this test?
No special preparation is typically required. However, you should inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and over-the-counter drugs you have recently taken, as these may affect the test results. Stay well-hydrated to help with urine sample collection.
Is this test painful?
No, the urine test is completely painless. It simply requires providing a urine sample in a collection container. There are no needles or invasive procedures involved.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1-3 days, depending on the laboratory. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results and discuss any necessary follow-up actions.
What if propoxyphene is detected in my urine?
Since propoxyphene was withdrawn from the market in 2010, its detection may warrant discussion with your healthcare provider. It could indicate historical exposure, use of remaining supplies, or potentially illicit sources. Your provider will help interpret the result in context of your medical history.
Can over-the-counter medications affect this test?
Yes, acetaminophen is found in many over-the-counter cold, flu, and pain medications. Taking these medications before the test may result in detectable acetaminophen levels, which is generally not a concern if taken as directed.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Drug TestingSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Acetaminophen (Oral Route, Rectal Route)Source
  3. 3
    FDA - Propoxyphene WithdrawalSource

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