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Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Drug Screening

GHB

A GHB urine test is a qualitative screening that detects the presence of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) in urine. GHB is a central nervous system depressant that occurs naturally in the body in trace amounts but may also be used as a recreational substance.

What It Measures

This test detects the presence of exogenous GHB in urine at levels above the natural endogenous baseline. GHB is rapidly absorbed and eliminated from the body, resulting in a very short detection window. The test provides a qualitative result indicating whether GHB levels exceed the assay cut-off.

Because GHB is produced naturally in the body at low levels, the assay threshold is set to distinguish between endogenous production and exogenous exposure.

Why It Matters

GHB detection is particularly challenging due to its very short detection window and the presence of endogenous GHB in the body. Timely testing is critical, as GHB may be undetectable in urine within hours of exposure.

Accurate GHB detection is relevant for clinical toxicology, forensic investigations, and situations where drug-facilitated incapacitation is suspected.

When to Test

Testing should be performed as soon as possible when GHB exposure is suspected, due to the very short detection window of approximately 4 to 8 hours in urine. Delayed testing significantly reduces the likelihood of detection.

Consult a healthcare professional for guidance on urgent sample collection and appropriate testing protocols.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can GHB be detected in urine?
GHB has a very short detection window of approximately 4 to 8 hours in urine after exposure. This is one of the shortest detection windows of any commonly tested substance, making timely sample collection critical for successful detection.
Why is GHB difficult to detect?
GHB is rapidly metabolised and eliminated from the body. Additionally, GHB occurs naturally in the body at low levels, requiring the test to distinguish between endogenous and exogenous sources. The very short detection window means samples must be collected promptly.
What should I expect from a GHB urine test?
The test involves providing a urine sample, which is analysed for GHB at levels above the endogenous threshold. Due to the short detection window, urgent collection is important. Confirmatory testing using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry may be performed.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.