Barbiturates urine test
Quick answer: This test checks urine for barbiturates, a group of sedative medicines, either as a yes-or-no screen or as a measured level. It is done for medical reasons such as unexplained drowsiness or emergencies, to monitor prescribed use, or for 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.
How the test is done
- 1You give a urine sample in a private room
- 2Staff may check the sample's temperature and seal it
- 3The sample is screened for barbiturates or measured for a level
- 4A positive screen may go for a confirmation test
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A positive screen is usually confirmed by another method, so discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result means barbiturates were detected, which can come from prescribed seizure medicines or other use. A measured level helps doctors judge whether the amount explains symptoms such as drowsiness.
Who usually has this test
People with unexplained drowsiness or poisoning, people on prescribed barbiturates who need monitoring, and people needing legal screening.
Risks and aftercare
No physical risk is involved in giving the urine sample.
Names and options
Also called: barbiturate screen
Options
- Qualitative (screen)
- Quantitative (level)
Listed by the hospital as
- BARBITURATES (URINE), QUANTITATIVE
- BARBITURATES (URINE), QUALITATIVE
Questions about this test
Can prescribed medicines cause a positive barbiturate test?
Yes. Phenobarbital, used for seizures, is a barbiturate and will show up. Tell staff about any prescribed medicines.
How long can barbiturates be found in urine?
It depends on the type. Short-acting ones may be detected for a few days, while long-acting ones like phenobarbital can be found for weeks.
What is the difference between a screen and a level?
A screen tells whether barbiturates are present above a cut-off. A level measures the amount, which can help monitor treatment or judge an overdose.
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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.