Reviewed byOlga Smirnova, MDAddiction psychiatrist, experience 27 years · updated 8 Nov 2026
Key facts
- Who provides it
- The addiction specialist orders and interprets the tests; a nurse collects the samples
- Where
- At home, at the clinic, or in the hospital; results can be reviewed online
- Duration
- Sample collection 15–30 minutes; basic results in 1–2 days, some tests take longer
- Anonymity
- Samples are labeled with a code; results go only to the patient and the doctor
- When it is urgent
- Jaundice, vomiting blood, chest pain, impaired consciousness — call 103 or 112
- Outcome
- An assessment of organ health, detection of complications and contraindications, and a basis for the treatment plan
What you should know
Alcohol and psychoactive substance use damages the liver, heart, pancreas, nervous system, and immune system, often for a long time without obvious symptoms. Testing is not a formality: its results determine which medications are safe, whether detox can be done at home, and whether there are contraindications to alcohol “coding” (a treatment widely used in Kazakhstan and CIS countries) and relapse prevention therapy. In addition, the tests help identify diseases that require separate treatment.
At Narcology 24, testing is ordered after a consultation with an addiction specialist and tailored to the individual — without unnecessary tests. Blood samples and an ECG can be taken at home in Atyrau during a home visit, at the clinic, or in the hospital. Addiction-related lab tests in Atyrau are done anonymously: samples are labeled with a code, and only the patient and the treating doctor receive the results. The results are explained and recommendations given at a follow-up appointment or by video call.
When Testing Is Especially Important
- before starting detox or a course of relapse prevention therapy
- before alcohol “coding,” chemical protection, or a blockade — a mandatory condition for the procedure
- after several years of drinking or after prolonged binges
- if you have pain under the right ribs, heaviness in the abdomen, or a change in skin color
- if you have an irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, or high blood pressure
- if you inject drugs — to detect infections
- to monitor your condition during treatment and after it ends
If two or three points apply, it is worth seeing a doctor. Phone advice is free and confidential. If life is at risk, call 103 or 112.
What Addiction Testing Includes
The basic panel, point by point: 1) a complete blood count — anemia, signs of inflammation, changes typical of alcohol misuse; 2) a blood chemistry panel — liver enzymes, bilirubin, glucose, creatinine, electrolytes; 3) a urinalysis; 4) an ECG — heart rhythm and conduction disorders; 5) tests for psychoactive substances; 6) screening for HIV, hepatitis B and C, and syphilis — especially for people who inject drugs.
Additional tests when indicated: an abdominal ultrasound, a coagulation panel, vitamin levels, and consultations with an internist, cardiologist, neurologist, or psychiatrist. The doctor decides on the scope of testing based on how long the person has been drinking or using, their symptoms, and the chosen treatment method. Referrals for additional tests in Atyrau are given only when their results will actually affect the course of treatment.
How Testing Works: Steps and Preparation
Steps: 1) a consultation with an addiction specialist in person or online — the doctor determines which tests are needed; 2) preparation — blood is drawn on an empty stomach, 8–12 hours without food, and ideally without alcohol for at least 24 hours; 3) sample collection and an ECG at home, at the clinic, or in the hospital; 4) results — basic ones in 1–2 days; 5) a review with the doctor, including online; 6) adjustment of the treatment plan. During a Narcology 24 home visit, sample collection can be combined with an IV drip.
Limitations: during severe intoxication and withdrawal, some values are distorted, so a full assessment is sometimes repeated after stabilization. Lab tests do not replace an examination: they can be discussed over video, but decisions about contraindications are made in person. If the person’s skin is yellow, they are vomiting blood, have severe abdominal or chest pain, or are confused, do not wait for test results — call 103 or 112.
How we help
Laboratory testing
A complete blood count and blood chemistry panel show how substance use has affected blood formation, the liver, the kidneys, and metabolism. Values such as liver enzymes and red blood cell volume help estimate how long and how heavily a person has been misusing alcohol, but on their own they are not proof of drinking. The doctor interprets the results together with the examination findings.
Toxicology tests
Rapid urine tests for the main groups of substances give results within minutes and are used for quick decisions. If confirmation is needed, a laboratory test is performed. The tests are done only with the patient’s consent and for medical purposes: to choose safe therapy and assess the risk of drug interactions.
Instrumental examinations
An ECG is mandatory before prescribing certain groups of medications and before alcohol “coding,” because alcohol and stimulants affect heart rhythm. When indicated, an ultrasound of the liver and pancreas is performed to assess organ size and signs of fatty liver disease or cirrhosis. These findings help determine whether a hepatologist or cardiologist needs to be involved.
Infection screening
For people who inject drugs or engage in risky behavior, screening for HIV, viral hepatitis B and C, and syphilis is recommended. Early detection makes it possible to start treating the infection and to protect loved ones. Results are communicated confidentially, with a doctor’s consultation about next steps and a referral to the appropriate specialist if needed.
Myths and facts
MythAddiction tests are done to put you on the registry
FactAnonymous testing is carried out for medical purposes — to make treatment safe. Samples are labeled with a code, only the patient and the doctor receive the results, and the information is not passed on for registry monitoring.
MythIf nothing hurts, there is no need to get tested
FactLiver and heart damage can go without symptoms for a long time. Symptoms often appear only at late stages. Testing detects changes earlier and makes it possible to adjust treatment in time and avoid dangerous prescriptions.
MythA drug test can show everything a person has taken in the past month
FactHow long a substance can be detected depends on the substance, the amount, how often it is used, and the type of sample. For most substances, a rapid urine test reflects a period of several hours to several days. The doctor interprets the result.
How a home visit works
- Call or message usThe dispatcher answers 24/7 and in 3–5 minutes checks the person's condition, age, how long the drinking or use has lasted, chronic conditions and the address. No surname needed.
- The doctor sets offAn addiction doctor or psychiatrist comes with equipment and medication. Travel time depends on the district — usually within an hour. If inpatient care or an ambulance is needed, we'll say so straight away.
- Examination and treatmentBlood pressure, pulse, oxygen saturation, blood sugar if needed and a neurological check. Then an IV drip or other treatment as indicated, 1–3 hours.
- A plan for the next daysAdvice for the family on what to do overnight and tomorrow, phone follow-up and a repeat visit if needed.
- Further treatmentCoding, psychotherapy, rehab or psychiatric follow-up — once the acute state has passed and the person is ready.
Prices in Atyrau
| Online addiction doctor consultation | 9 000 ₸ |
| In-person addiction doctor consultation | 11 000 ₸ |
| Family consultation | 11 000 ₸ |
| Phone advice | free |
The final cost is agreed before treatment starts. Prices are in tenge and do not constitute a public offer.
Where to get help
Narcology 24 in Atyrau: our duty team makes home visits day and night, usually within an hour (all city districts and nearby settlements). Two branches for appointments and procedures — 159 Smagulova St., office 36, Atyrau and 36 Azattyk Ave., Atyrau. When indicated, we arrange admission and transport.
Confidential and private
Information about your request, diagnosis and treatment is protected by medical confidentiality under the Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System”. We do not share it with employers, schools, the police or neighbours; the only exceptions are those expressly set by law. A first name is enough to call us, and paid confidential treatment does not mean a registry entry.
Questions and answers
Which tests are needed before alcohol “coding”?
The minimum set usually includes a complete blood count, a blood chemistry panel, and an ECG, plus a urinalysis and an internist’s consultation when indicated. The addiction specialist determines the exact list based on the method, age, and co-occurring illnesses. Alcohol “coding” is never done without testing.
Can I have the tests done at home?
Yes. A nurse or doctor comes to your home to take blood samples and do an ECG. This is convenient if the person finds it hard to leave home or needs anonymity. The results are passed on to the doctor, and they can be reviewed in person or by video call.
Do I need to be sober before the tests?
It is advisable to avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours and to have blood drawn on an empty stomach. If the person is on a binge, samples are still taken — this is important for safe detox — but the doctor takes the effect of intoxication on the results into account and orders repeat testing if necessary.
How soon will the results be ready?
Rapid drug tests and an ECG — immediately. A complete blood count and blood chemistry panel — usually within 1–2 days. Infection screening and confirmatory toxicology tests may take longer. Timelines are confirmed when the samples are collected.
Can I get an official certificate based on the test results?
Anonymous results are issued under a code and are not an official document for an employer or government authorities. If you need a certificate in the prescribed form, the testing is done with identity verification — this is discussed with the doctor in advance.
Do the tests need to be repeated during treatment?
Yes, when indicated. Monitoring liver values and other parameters helps assess recovery and the safety of long-term therapy. The Narcology 24 treating doctor determines how often repeat tests are needed — usually 1–3 months after treatment begins.
Where do doctors visit in Atyrau and where are the branches?
Home visits cover all city districts and nearby settlements, 24/7. Appointments at two branches: 159 Smagulova St., office 36, Atyrau and 36 Azattyk Ave., Atyrau. Phone in Atyrau: +7 (700) 309-30-65.
Sources and methodology
This page was prepared by the Narcology 24 medical editorial team based on:
- International Classification of Diseases ICD-10 and ICD-11, World Health Organization
- Clinical diagnosis and treatment protocols of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan
- Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Public Health and the Healthcare System”
- NICE (UK) guidelines on alcohol and drug misuse and mental health conditions
- WHO recommendations on the treatment of substance use disorders
This information is for reference only and does not replace a consultation with a specialist. Editorial policy
