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Cocaine metabolite mass concentration (e.g., benzoylecgonine) in urine

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test detects the presence of cocaine metabolites in your urine, often used to screen for recent cocaine use.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess exposure to cocaine within a specified timeframe."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
31137-3
Short code
Cocaine Bifl-mCnc
Synonyms
Cocaine Bifl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why is this test done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for recent cocaine use, especially if you’re experiencing symptoms related to cocaine exposure, undergoing treatment for substance use, or are part of a monitoring program. It can also be used in workplace or legal settings to screen for drug use.

What does the test involve?

A small urine sample is collected in a sterile container. The sample is then analyzed in a lab to measure the concentration of cocaine metabolites, such as benzoylecgonine, which are breakdown products of cocaine.

What do the results mean?

Positive results indicate recent cocaine use, but they don’t confirm the exact amount or timing of exposure. Negative results mean no detectable metabolites were found in this sample, but they don’t guarantee you haven’t used cocaine recently.

How often is this test repeated?

The frequency depends on your clinical situation. Some tests are done once, while others may be repeated over days or weeks to track changes in exposure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine cocaine metabolite screen

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result suggests recent cocaine use, but it doesn’t provide details about how much or when you used it. It may trigger follow-up questions or discussions with your healthcare provider about substance use patterns.
Can false positives or negatives occur?
Yes, false positives can happen due to other substances or lab errors, while false negatives may occur if the sample was collected too early after use. Always discuss results with your provider.
How long do results take?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on lab processing times.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy