Barbiturates in urine

The analysis of barbiturates in urine at IntroLab is used to detect and confirm the presence of barbiturates in the body. Barbiturates are drugs that affect the central nervous system (CNS) and have a high potential for abuse and dependence. These drugs are considered “depressants” because they cause a general sense of calm. They are often misused for their sedative properties and frequently lead to overdoses that result in death.

Why are barbiturates measured in urine?

Testing for barbiturates is conducted for several reasons. When misused or improperly used, even prescription barbiturates can create hazardous work or home environments and create tension in personal relationships. They can lead to addiction, and overdose can result in loss of life. Testing for barbiturates can help create a safer work or home environment and can open the door to recovery for someone struggling with addiction.

How is barbiturate testing performed?

Barbiturate testing is usually carried out through urine analysis. This method is quick, efficient, and a less expensive option but covers a shorter time period (up to three weeks). If it is necessary to identify barbiturate use beyond three weeks, there is an option of hair testing, which can identify use approximately 90 days back.

What do the test results mean?

Barbiturates can be detected in urine up to 21 days after initial use. The presence of barbiturates in urine is considered preliminarily positive at levels >300 ng/mL using secobarbital as a standard and may indicate prescribed or abused use of this class of drugs.

Risks and limitations

Short-acting and intermediate-acting barbiturates can be detected in urine at least 24 to 72 hours after ingestion, while longer-acting drugs can be detected at least seven days later. Initial testing is done by immunoassay (IA); confirmation of positive results is done by mass spectrometry (MS).

Importance of the analysis

This urine drug test is essential for identifying potential misuse or addiction, as well as for monitoring therapy for those who are on prescribed barbiturate therapy. IntroLab laboratory in Belgrade provides this service with high standards of quality and reliability. For more information about barbiturate analysis in urine, feel free to contact us.