Toxicology screen
Alternative names:
amphetamines - screen; analgesics - screen; antidepressants - screen; barbiturates - screen; benzodiazepines - screen; blood alcohol test; drug abuse screen; isopropanol (rubbing alcohol) - screen; methanol - screen; narcotics - screen; phenothiazines - screen
Normal values:
"Normal" levels vary according to the institution performing the test.
Blood can be tested for the presence and levels (amounts) of medications. Urine screening is usually reported as positive (substance is present) or negative (absent), but the level of certain substances can also be measured fairly accurately in urine.
Therapeutic levels are found for prescribed or over-the-counter medications (see the specific medication).
There is no alcohol, prescription medications not prescribed, or illegal drugs.
Carboxyhemoglobin: less than 3% of total hemoglobin (up to 15% in tobacco smokers)
Methemoglobin: less than 3% of total hemoglobin
Sulfhemoglobin: not detectable
What abnormal results mean:
The presence of illegal drugs or drugs not prescribed for the person indicates illicit drug use.
Elevated levels of alcohol or drugs can indicate intentional or accidental intoxication and/or overdose.
Carboxyhemoglobin results from the union of hemoglobin and carbon monoxide. Elevated levels may indicate carbon monoxide poisoning.
Methemoglobin results from the oxidation of ferrous iron to ferric iron. Elevated levels may indicate the use of chemicals and drugs such as aniline, chlorates, nitrates, nitrites, phenacetin, or sulfonamides, or may exist as a primary condition.
Sulfhemoglobin results from the combination of hemoglobin with certain drugs such as phenacetin or sulfonamides; it causes cyanosis (blueness of the skin) but few other symptoms.
Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:
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