LabInformationLab tests, explained

Barbiturates Screen in California

Barbiturates Screen is a laboratory test you can order directly. A barbiturates screen is a blood test that looks for barbiturates, a class of sedative medications that slow brain activity. It is ordered when a person has symptoms such as extreme drowsiness, confusion, or slowed breathing, or when a clinician needs to check exposure to these drugs. This page covers the barbiturates screen for people in California, in Pacific, from what it measures to how to arrange a draw.

Sample type
blood
Category
Drug & Urine Screening
Turnaround
1-3 business days
Price
$389
Referral
Not required

A barbiturates screen is a blood test that looks for barbiturates, a class of sedative medications that slow brain activity. It is ordered when a person has symptoms such as extreme drowsiness, confusion, or slowed breathing, or when a clinician needs to check exposure to these drugs.

What it measures

  • Barbiturates (total) — A combined measurement of barbiturate drugs present in the blood.
  • Phenobarbital — A commonly prescribed barbiturate, often checked specifically.
  • Secobarbital — A short-acting barbiturate that may be included in the screen.
  • Pentobarbital — Another barbiturate sometimes detected by the test.
  • Amobarbital — A barbiturate that may be reported as part of the total.

Who it is for

The test is typically ordered by emergency clinicians, primary care providers, or toxicology specialists. It may also be requested by pain management or addiction medicine clinicians.

Preparation

No fasting or special preparation is usually required. Tell the clinician about all medications and supplements you take, since some can affect the result.

Results and what they mean

Results are reported as a level or as detected/not detected, depending on the lab. A clinician interprets the result alongside your symptoms, history, and other tests. This is general information only and is not medical advice; discuss your results with a qualified clinician.

Requesting the Barbiturates Screen in California

Order online, choose a certified collection site in California, and review results through a secure portal. No referral is required, and orders are processed confidentially. Access across Pacific is uneven, so confirming a site ahead of time is worthwhile.

Frequently asked questions

Does this test require fasting?

No. Fasting is not needed for a barbiturates screen.

How long do barbiturates stay in the blood?

It depends on the specific drug and dose, but many barbiturates can be detected for one to several days.

Can other medicines cause a false result?

Some medicines can interfere with the test. Share your full medication list with the clinician.

Is the result private?

Yes. Lab results are confidential and are shared with you and your clinician.

Barbiturates Screen by city in California

All testing in California →   Full Barbiturates Screen guide →