Urine opiates screen
Quick answer: This urine test checks for opiates such as morphine and codeine. It is used in emergencies, in treatment programmes and for workplace or legal screening.
- SampleUrine
- TakesA few minutes
- Before the testTell staff about any medicines you take, including cough syrups or painkillers, as some contain opiates.
How the test is done
- 1You are asked about any medicines you have taken recently
- 2You pass urine into a container, sometimes with staff present or nearby
- 3The sample may be checked for temperature and sealed
- 4The lab runs a screening test, with confirmation if needed
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A screening result may need a confirmatory test; discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive screen means opiates such as morphine or codeine may be present, which can come from prescribed painkillers, cough syrups, illicit use or sometimes poppy seeds. A negative screen means none were found above the test cut-off.
Who usually has this test
People in emergency care with unexplained drowsiness, those in treatment programmes, and people needing workplace or legal screening.
Risks and aftercare
Giving the sample carries no physical risk, and you can leave once it is handed over and sealed.
Names and options
Also called: opiate drug test, morphine urine test
Listed by the hospital as
- OPIATES URINE (QUALITATIVE)
Questions about this test
Can cough syrup cause a positive opiate test?
Yes. Some cough syrups contain codeine, which can give a positive result. Tell staff about any cough syrups, painkillers or other medicines you have taken.
Can poppy seeds affect an opiate test?
Eating a large amount of poppy seeds can sometimes cause a positive screen, because they can contain small amounts of morphine. A confirmatory test can help tell this apart from other sources.
Does an opiate screen detect all opioids?
Not always. Standard screens pick up morphine and codeine well, but some synthetic opioids such as tramadol or fentanyl may need separate tests. Your doctor will choose the right test.
Related tests
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.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
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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.