Amphetamine urine test (qualitative)
Quick answer: This test checks urine for amphetamines and related drugs and reports whether they are detected. It is done for medical reasons, such as unexplained symptoms or emergencies, or for workplace or legal screening.
- SampleUrine
- TakesA few minutes to give the sample
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed; tell staff about all medicines you take, as some cold and weight-loss medicines can affect the result.
How the test is done
- 1You are asked to give a urine sample, sometimes with a staff member nearby
- 2The temperature of the sample may be checked
- 3The sample is tested with a screening method
- 4A positive screen is usually sent for confirmation testing
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A positive screening result is usually confirmed with another method, so discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result means amphetamine-type substances were detected and needs confirmation, as some cold medicines, weight-loss medicines and other drugs can cause a false positive. A negative result means none were detected above the test cut-off.
Who usually has this test
People with unexplained agitation, fast heartbeat or confusion in an emergency, and people needing workplace or legal screening.
Risks and aftercare
Giving the sample carries no physical risk, and you can eat and drink normally afterwards.
Names and options
Also called: amphetamine screen, drug test amphetamine
Listed by the hospital as
- AMPHETAMINE (QUALITATIVE), URINE
Questions about this test
Can cold medicines cause a positive amphetamine test?
Yes. Some decongestants and other medicines can react with the screening test. Tell staff what you take, as a confirmation test can tell them apart.
How long can amphetamines be detected in urine?
It is often a few days after use, but it depends on the substance, the amount and the person. Your doctor or the testing body can explain what a result means.
What is a confirmation test?
It is a more specific lab method used to check a positive screen. It helps make sure a result is not caused by another substance.
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Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.