LabInformationLab tests, explained

Benzodiazepine Screen in California

Benzodiazepine Screen can be requested without a referral, and this overview covers what to expect. A benzodiazepine screen is a blood test that checks for the presence of benzodiazepine drugs, a class of medications often prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. It is ordered when a healthcare provider needs to detect recent use, assess possible overdose, or monitor adherence to a prescribed regimen. Across California, part of Pacific, the benzodiazepine screen can be ordered directly and collected at a certified site — no referral required.

Sample type
blood
Category
Drug & Urine Screening
Turnaround
1-3 business days
Price
$49
Referral
Not required

A benzodiazepine screen is a blood test that checks for the presence of benzodiazepine drugs, a class of medications often prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. It is ordered when a healthcare provider needs to detect recent use, assess possible overdose, or monitor adherence to a prescribed regimen.

What it measures

  • Benzodiazepine class — Detects many common benzodiazepines, such as diazepam, lorazepam, and alprazolam, but not every specific drug.
  • Specific benzodiazepines — Some tests can identify individual drugs like diazepam or midazolam, which may help confirm which substance was taken.
  • Metabolites — Breakdown products of benzodiazepines that can remain in the blood longer than the original drug.

Who it is for

Healthcare providers in emergency rooms, primary care, or addiction medicine typically order this test. It may also be used in workplace or legal settings, though urine tests are more common for those purposes.

Preparation

No fasting or special preparation is usually required. Tell your provider about all medications, supplements, and recreational drugs you use, as these can affect the results.

Results and what they mean

Results are reported as positive or negative, and sometimes with a level or specific drug identified. A positive result means benzodiazepines were detected, but it does not necessarily indicate misuse or impairment. Only a qualified clinician can interpret the results in the context of your health history. This information is not medical advice.

Requesting the Benzodiazepine 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. With coastal metros, inland towns, and rural counties with very different access to testing, it pays to schedule your collection in advance.

Frequently asked questions

How long after taking a benzodiazepine can this test detect it?

Detection times vary by drug, dose, and individual factors. Some benzodiazepines can be detected for several days, while others may clear within hours.

Can foods or other medications cause a false positive?

Yes, certain medications and rarely some foods can interfere with the test. Your provider will consider this when interpreting results.

Is this test confidential?

Yes, your test results are protected health information and are kept private under privacy laws.

What should I do if I have a positive result?

Discuss the result with your healthcare provider. They can explain what it means for your situation and whether further testing is needed.

Benzodiazepine Screen by city in California

All testing in California →   Full Benzodiazepine Screen guide →