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Cocaine metabolite concentration (meconic acid)

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

This test measures the presence of meconic acid, a breakdown product of cocaine, in your body fluids. It helps assess recent cocaine use.

Quick summary

["Detects recent cocaine exposure through a specific metabolite."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
40527-4
Short code
Cocaine Mec Ql
Synonyms
Cocaine Mec Ql
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 This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like confusion, rapid heartbeat, or unusual behavior that could suggest recent cocaine use. It can also be part of a broader evaluation for substance use, especially in medical or legal settings.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. The test may be done on blood, urine, or saliva, depending on the clinical context. If blood is used, you may need to fast for a short time, but this is not always required.

What the Test Results Mean

Positive results indicate recent cocaine exposure, as meconic acid is a stable metabolite that remains in the body longer than cocaine itself. However, results alone should not be interpreted without clinical correlation.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Abnormal results are most likely due to recent cocaine use but could also be influenced by other substances or medical conditions. False positives are rare but may occur with certain medications or laboratory errors.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Cocaine metabolite screening

Frequently asked questions

How long does meconic acid stay in the body?
Meconic acid typically remains detectable in the body for several days after cocaine use, depending on factors like metabolism, dosage, and individual differences. Blood tests may detect it for a longer period than urine tests.
Can this test detect cocaine use from days or weeks ago?
No, this test specifically measures meconic acid, which reflects recent use. It is not designed to detect cocaine exposure from weeks prior, as the metabolite breaks down over time.
What does a positive result mean for my health?
A positive result suggests recent cocaine exposure but does not indicate the severity of use or long-term health effects. It should be discussed with your healthcare provider to guide further evaluation or treatment options.
  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