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Cocaine concentration in serum/plasma (24-hour urine)

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

This test measures the presence of cocaine and its metabolites in your urine over the past 24 hours to check for recent drug use.

Quick summary

["Assesses recent cocaine exposure through urine screening."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73823-7
Short code
Cocaine+BZE SerPlBld Ql Scn
Synonyms
Cocaine+BZE SerPlBld Ql Scn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
screen
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 This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of cocaine use, such as rapid heart rate, confusion, or if you’ve been exposed to cocaine in your environment. It can also be used in workplace drug testing, legal proceedings, or to monitor substance use in treatment programs.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this urine test. You’ll provide a 24-hour urine sample collected from the time you wake up until the next morning. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

What the Test Results Mean

Positive results indicate recent cocaine use, while negative results suggest no detectable cocaine or its metabolites in your system during the 24-hour period. Results are qualitative (present or absent) rather than quantitative, so they don’t show exact amounts.

Common Reasons for Testing

This test is often used in scenarios like workplace drug testing, legal investigations, or as part of substance abuse evaluations. It helps healthcare providers track patterns of use or monitor compliance with treatment plans.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Cocaine metabolite screen (24-hour urine)

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means cocaine or its metabolites were detected in your urine within the past 24 hours. This could indicate recent use, but it doesn’t prove intent or frequency. Follow-up testing or clinical correlation may be needed for further evaluation.
Can false positives occur?
Yes, false positives are possible due to cross-reacting substances in urine or certain medications. If results are unclear, your provider may repeat the test or use additional methods for confirmation.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you during your follow-up visit.
  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