Lab test
Drug Testing
Below is a plain-language overview of the drug testing. Drug testing uses blood or urine to detect the presence of drugs or their breakdown products. It is often ordered for employment, legal, or medical reasons.
Lab requirements in Drug Testing
Here is what you need before ordering and completing the Drug Testing. Review each item and confirm the details with the collection lab.
- Physician's order
- Included. A physician's order is required for lab testing and is provided for you by our partner's physicians — no referral from your own doctor is needed.
- Fasting
- Fasting is required for this test — follow the collection lab's instructions.
- Preparation
- Preparation instructions vary depending on the specific test and the lab performing it. Always follow the collection lab's instructions carefully, as some tests may require fasting or…
- Sample & visit
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Identification
- Bring the lab requisition form from your account. The collection lab may also ask for a government-issued photo ID.
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Availability
- Our partner lab does not serve ND, RI, NY, NJ, MD or HI. Confirm availability for your location with the collection lab.
Before you go
- Order your test before visiting a lab, then use the requisition form in your account.
- Print the requisition form, or fax it to the lab directly from your account.
- No scheduling is needed — visit the collection lab during its normal business hours.
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Bring a government-issued photo ID in case the lab requests it.
- Results are posted to your secure account within 1–3 business days.
Requirements are summarized from our partner lab's published policies. Preparation and availability can change — confirm current instructions with the collection lab before your visit.
What this test is
Drug testing is a laboratory analysis that screens for common drugs of abuse, prescription medications, or other substances in the body. It can be performed on blood or urine, depending on the test ordered. The results provide information about recent or past drug use.
What it measures
- Amphetamines — Detects stimulant drugs like methamphetamine or prescription amphetamines.
- Barbiturates — Detects sedative drugs that depress the central nervous system.
- Benzodiazepines — Detects anti-anxiety medications such as diazepam or alprazolam.
- Cannabinoids — Detects marijuana use by identifying THC metabolites.
- Cocaine — Detects cocaine use by identifying its metabolites.
- Opiates — Detects natural or synthetic opioids like heroin, morphine, or codeine.
- Phencyclidine — Detects the hallucinogen PCP.
What the test involves
For a blood drug test, a healthcare professional collects a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. For a urine drug test, you provide a urine sample in a private collection area, following the lab's instructions.
Why it is often ordered
A clinician may order drug testing to screen for substance use as part of a medical evaluation, to monitor compliance with a treatment plan, or for employment or legal purposes. It can also help diagnose a drug overdose or poisoning.
Preparation
Preparation instructions vary depending on the specific test and the lab performing it. Always follow the collection lab's instructions carefully, as some tests may require fasting or avoiding certain substances beforehand.
How results are reported
Results are typically reported as positive or negative for each substance tested, and sometimes with a quantitative level. Reference ranges and cutoff values vary by laboratory, so results should be interpreted in the context of the lab's own standards.
Before you go
- Whether fasting or other preparation is needed
- The specific drugs included in the test panel
- How and when results will be delivered
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How long do drugs stay detectable in my system?
Detection times vary widely based on the drug, amount used, frequency, and individual factors like metabolism. Urine tests generally detect recent use within a few days, while blood tests may show a shorter window. Your lab can provide specific guidance.
Can I eat or drink before a drug test?
In most cases, fasting is not required for drug testing, but some tests may have specific restrictions. Always check with the collection lab for any preparation instructions to ensure accurate results.
Are drug test results confidential?
Yes, laboratory results are protected health information and are typically released only to the person who ordered the test or as authorized by law. For employment or legal testing, specific consent and disclosure rules apply.
What should I do if I have a positive result?
A positive result does not necessarily mean you have a substance use disorder. Many factors can affect results, including prescription medications and certain foods. Discuss any positive findings with a qualified healthcare professional for proper interpretation.
Related
Related tests
Locations
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