TOXICOLOGY TESTING
Toxicology
Laboratory information can help put a medication history into context. Our toxicology service supports clinicians evaluating prescribed and other substances within an ordered panel.
Scientific illustration. The text on this page provides the information independently of the graphic.
EXPLORE, DON’T JUST READ
Screening and definitive testing answer different questions.
Switch the view to see the distinction. The signal landscape is synthetic.
Interactive educational illustration. Confirm the actual panel, specimen and interpretation requirements with the laboratory.
THE CLINICAL QUESTION
What this testing
can help explore.
Pure Diagnostic’s toxicology services include presumptive screening and definitive testing. The laboratory’s methods include enzyme immunoassay and liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Urine and oral-fluid collection options are described in the service information; confirm suitability for the specific order.
Purpose
To support medication-monitoring conversations in primary care, pain management, psychiatry, addiction medicine and recovery care.
- Laboratory approach
- Presumptive screening and definitive LC-MS/MS
- Specimen planning
- Urine or oral fluid, depending on the ordered testing. Obtain the correct kit and current instructions from the laboratory.
- Availability & reporting
- Contact the laboratory for current panel options, turnaround time and reporting arrangements.
Understanding the report
A result needs to be read in the context of the ordered targets, medication list and specimen. Discuss unexpected findings with the ordering clinician.
Know the limits
Drug detection depends on several factors, including the substance, timing and individual metabolism. A result should not be used on its own to draw conclusions about a person’s behavior or care.
Before you order
- Is the request for presumptive or definitive testing?
- Which drugs and metabolites are included?
- Is urine or oral fluid appropriate for this order?
- Which medication and collection information should accompany the specimen?
Prepare your questions, then confirm the details through the laboratory’s ordering process.
Create an order worksheetCommon questions
What is a metabolite?
A metabolite is a substance produced when the body processes a drug or another compound. Ask the clinician how the reported findings relate to the medication history.
Should I stop my medication before testing?
Do not stop or change medication based on this website. Follow the instructions provided by your prescribing clinician.
Further reading
Independent educational information. These sources do not describe the specific scope of a Pure Diagnostic panel.
KEEP EXPLORING
Related testing areas.
YOUR NEXT CONVERSATION
Questions about toxicology?
Our team can help with current availability, specimen requirements and practice coordination.