Drugs of Abuse

Clinical use

This test can be used where determining recent illicit drug use will help aid clinical management.

Background

The initial screen is based on an immunoassay and will indicate which, if any, of the major illicit drug groups are present. Further confirmation analysis employing GC-MS will identify the particular drug involved and will also give more information on any less common drugs of abuse and any commonly occurring pharmacological compounds that may be present. However toxicological analysis will only show current or more recent drug use.

Reference ranges

Barbiturates, Benziodiazepines, Cannabinoids, Cocaine, Ecstasy, Opiates, Urine Alcohol, Methadone Metabolites and Amphetamines.

Results are expressed as either positive or negative

Patient preparation

None required

Specimen requirements

Urine sample collected into a plain universal.
Please indicate any suspected drug use on request. If chain of custody is required sample must be accompanied by correct forms and in a locking box. Discuss with Laboratory if unsure.