Substance Use Disorder Blood Test

What is Substance Use Disorder?

Substance use disorder is a medical condition characterized by compulsive drug or alcohol use despite harmful consequences to health, relationships, and daily functioning. It is caused by repeated exposure to addictive substances that alter brain chemistry, affecting dopamine pathways and reward systems. The MDMA/MDA Quantitative Urine test is the most important test for detecting synthetic drug use because it measures specific drug levels and provides a longer detection window than blood testing.

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What causes substance use disorder?

Substance use disorder is caused by repeated exposure to addictive substances like alcohol, opioids, stimulants (including MDMA and amphetamines), cannabis, and sedatives that alter brain chemistry. These substances hijack the brain's reward system by flooding it with dopamine, creating intense feelings of pleasure that the brain begins to crave. Over time, the brain adapts to the presence of these substances, requiring larger amounts to achieve the same effect and causing withdrawal symptoms when use stops. Genetic factors, environmental influences, childhood trauma, mental health conditions, and social pressures all contribute to vulnerability for developing substance use disorder.

What is the best test for substance use disorder?

The MDMA/MDA Quantitative Urine test is the most important test for detecting synthetic drug use in substance use disorder because it measures specific levels of MDMA (ecstasy), MDA, and MDEA with a detection window of 2-4 days after use. This quantitative test provides precise measurements of drug concentrations, helping healthcare providers assess usage patterns and monitor treatment progress. The Amphetamine Confirmation Blood test is essential for detecting recent amphetamine-type substance use within 12-24 hours and provides definitive evidence of current intoxication. Together, these tests offer comprehensive screening for common synthetic drugs of abuse, with urine testing providing broader detection windows and blood testing confirming very recent use.

When should I get tested for substance use disorder?

You should get tested if you or a loved one experiences uncontrollable cravings for drugs or alcohol, continues using substances despite negative consequences at work or home, needs increasing amounts to feel the same effects, or experiences withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop. Testing is also important if you notice unexplained behavioral changes, financial problems related to substance purchases, failed attempts to quit, or if you're entering a treatment program that requires baseline drug screening. Employers may require testing after workplace incidents, and healthcare providers often recommend testing before prescribing certain medications or during pregnancy to ensure safety.

What are the symptoms of substance use disorder?
Symptoms of substance use disorder include intense cravings for the substance, inability to control or reduce use despite wanting to stop, and spending excessive time obtaining, using, or recovering from substance effects. Physical signs include tolerance (needing more to get the same effect), withdrawal symptoms when not using, neglecting personal hygiene, and unexplained weight changes. Behavioral symptoms include abandoning hobbies and activities, declining work or school performance, secretive behavior, financial problems, and continued use despite relationship conflicts or legal troubles. Psychological symptoms often include mood swings, irritability, anxiety, depression, and impaired judgment or decision-making.
Who is at risk for substance use disorder?
People with family history of addiction have significantly higher risk due to genetic factors that account for 40-60% of vulnerability. Those with mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder are at increased risk, as are individuals who experienced childhood trauma, abuse, or neglect. Early substance use (before age 18) dramatically increases addiction risk because the developing adolescent brain is more susceptible to addiction. Other risk factors include peer pressure, easy access to substances, chronic stress, lack of family support, and certain professions with high-stress environments or substance availability such as healthcare workers or entertainment industry professionals.
What happens if substance use disorder is left untreated?
Untreated substance use disorder progressively damages physical and mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life. Chronic substance use can cause liver disease, heart problems, lung damage, increased cancer risk, infectious diseases from needle sharing, and permanent brain damage affecting memory and decision-making. Mental health deteriorates with worsening depression, anxiety, and increased suicide risk. Social consequences include job loss, financial ruin, homelessness, broken relationships, and legal problems including arrest and incarceration. Overdose risk increases significantly over time, particularly with opioids and stimulants, and can result in permanent disability or death. Early intervention and treatment dramatically improve outcomes and prevent these devastating consequences.
Can substance use disorder be diagnosed with a blood test?
Blood and urine tests cannot diagnose substance use disorder by themselves, but they are essential tools for detecting recent substance use and supporting clinical diagnosis. The Amphetamine Confirmation Blood test detects MDMA, MDA, and amphetamines in blood within 12-24 hours of use, while the MDMA/MDA Quantitative Urine test provides a longer detection window of 2-4 days and measures specific drug concentrations. Healthcare providers use these objective test results alongside behavioral assessments, medical history, and diagnostic criteria from the DSM-5 to make a comprehensive diagnosis. Testing is particularly valuable because individuals may minimize or deny their substance use, and objective evidence helps guide appropriate treatment recommendations.
How is substance use disorder treated?
Treatment for substance use disorder typically combines behavioral therapy, medication-assisted treatment, and ongoing support for lasting recovery. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps identify triggers and develop coping strategies, while group therapy and 12-step programs provide peer support and accountability. Medications like methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone can reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms for opioid addiction, while other medications address alcohol dependence or co-occurring mental health conditions. Residential or inpatient treatment programs provide intensive structured care, followed by outpatient therapy for continued support. Treatment plans are individualized based on the specific substance, severity of addiction, mental health needs, and personal circumstances, with the most successful approaches addressing physical, psychological, and social aspects of recovery.
How can I prevent substance use disorder?
Prevention starts with education about the risks of substance use, particularly for adolescents whose brains are still developing and most vulnerable to addiction. Building strong family connections, maintaining open communication about drugs and alcohol, and setting clear expectations significantly reduce risk. Developing healthy coping strategies for stress, treating mental health conditions early, and cultivating supportive friendships with peers who don't use substances all provide protective factors. Avoiding early substance experimentation, limiting access to addictive substances, and seeking help immediately if you notice problematic use patterns can prevent progression to full addiction. For those with family history of addiction, extra vigilance and possibly avoiding substance use entirely may be the safest approach.
What can I do at home to support recovery from substance use disorder?
Home support for substance use disorder recovery includes creating a substance-free environment by removing all drugs and alcohol from your living space and avoiding people, places, and situations that trigger cravings. Establish a structured daily routine with regular sleep, nutritious meals, and physical exercise, which helps restore brain chemistry and reduces stress. Practice mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to manage cravings and emotional challenges. Stay connected with your support network through regular attendance at support group meetings, therapy appointments, and check-ins with your sponsor or accountability partner. Keep yourself occupied with healthy activities, hobbies, and volunteer work that provide purpose and fulfillment. However, home strategies should always complement professional treatment, not replace it, as medical supervision is essential for safe withdrawal and lasting recovery.
How’s this work?
Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:
  1. In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
  2. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
  3. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
  4. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
  5. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
  6. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
  7. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
  8. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.
How do I know which test to get?
In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.

Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.
Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?
Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.

Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.

There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.

Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.
Do you accept health insurance?
Only HSA & FSA is accepted.

Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.

This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.

If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
Can I cancel my order?
Yes.

We get it – sometimes your needs change.

As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.

If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

You can read more about our cancellation policy here.
How can I find a lab location near me?
During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).

Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.

If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.
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Your testosterone levels are slightly below the optimal range. While this is not necessarily cause for concern, it may contribute to occasional fatigue, reduced motivation, or lower muscle mass over time.

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* Regular blood test results (e.g., CBC) typically start arriving the next business day after sample collection. More complex tests, such as hormone panels, may take up to 10–15 business days due to their complexity.

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MDMA/MDA, Quantitative, Urine
Google reviews 505 reviews
$443 $346
What's included
Fast & easy, results by email & SMS
No need to visit a doctor
Private & confidential
No insurance needed
Results explained
No extra fees paid at the lab

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