LabInformationLab tests, explained

Opiate Screen in North Carolina

Opiate Screen can be requested without a referral, and this overview covers what to expect. An opiate screen is a blood test that looks for opiates, a group of medicines and drugs that come from the opium poppy or are made to act like it. It is ordered to check for recent use, to help assess a possible overdose, or to monitor someone in treatment or under medical supervision. Across North Carolina, part of South, the opiate 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
$119
Referral
Not required

An opiate screen is a blood test that looks for opiates, a group of medicines and drugs that come from the opium poppy or are made to act like it. It is ordered to check for recent use, to help assess a possible overdose, or to monitor someone in treatment or under medical supervision.

What it measures

  • Morphine — A common opiate used for pain; often the marker the test is built around.
  • Codeine — A pain medicine that the body converts into morphine.
  • Heroin — A drug that breaks down quickly into morphine in the body.
  • Hydrocodone — An opiate pain medicine sold under several brand names.
  • Oxycodone — An opiate pain medicine, also available in long-acting forms.

Who it is for

The test is usually ordered by an emergency doctor, a pain or addiction specialist, or another clinician when recent opiate use needs to be checked. It may also be used as part of a workplace or treatment program that requires drug testing.

Preparation

No fasting is needed. Tell the person drawing your blood about any opiate medicines you take, including prescriptions, so the result can be read correctly.

Results and what they mean

Results are usually reported as positive (opiates found) or negative (none found), sometimes with a number for each substance. A positive result does not by itself mean misuse, because prescribed medicines and some foods can cause it. Only a clinician can interpret the result in your situation; this is general information, not medical advice.

Requesting the Opiate Screen in North Carolina

Order online, choose a certified collection site in North Carolina, and review results through a secure portal. No referral is required, and orders are processed confidentially. With fast population growth that keeps clinical capacity in motion, it pays to schedule your collection in advance.

Frequently asked questions

Does this test show which opiate I took?

It can show which opiates were found, but it may not tell exactly when or how much was used.

Will my prescription pain medicine cause a positive result?

Yes. Opiate medicines such as codeine, hydrocodone, and oxycodone can cause a positive result.

How long do opiates stay in the blood?

Most opiates clear from blood within about one to two days, though this varies by drug, dose, and the person.

Can I eat or drink before the test?

Yes. No fasting or special preparation is required for this blood test.

Opiate Screen by city in North Carolina

All testing in North Carolina →   Full Opiate Screen guide →