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Cocaine Substance Concentration in Serum/Plasma (Screening)

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

This test detects the presence of cocaine or its metabolites in your blood, helping identify recent drug use.

Quick summary

["A simple blood test to check for recent cocaine exposure."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
49747-9
Short code
Cocaine+BZE SerPl Ql Scn
Synonyms
Cocaine+BZE SerPl 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

What This Test Measures

This test measures cocaine or its breakdown products (such as benzoylecgonine) in your blood. Cocaine is metabolized into these compounds after ingestion, so levels can reflect recent use. The test is typically performed using a sensitive immunoassay method to detect these substances.

Why You Might Need This Test

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like rapid heartbeat, confusion, or if you’ve been exposed to cocaine. It’s also used in workplace drug screening, legal investigations, or pre-employment health checks.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is taken from your arm. The sample is then analyzed in a lab to detect cocaine or its metabolites. The result is usually available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the lab.

What the Results Mean

A positive result means cocaine or its metabolites were found in your blood. The exact meaning depends on your clinical situation (e.g., recent use, pre-employment screening). A negative result means no detectable levels were found, but this doesn’t guarantee you haven’t used cocaine recently.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Cocaine Screen (Serum/Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, but this can vary by lab. Your doctor will contact you once the results are ready.
Can I drink water before the test?
Yes, you can drink water before the test unless your doctor specifies otherwise. Avoid alcohol or caffeine before the blood draw if instructed.
Does this test detect cocaine use from days ago?
This test detects recent cocaine use, typically within the past 24 to 48 hours. Longer-term use may require additional testing or urine samples, as cocaine metabolites can stay in urine for days to weeks.
  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