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Cocaine and Cocaine Metabolites, Hair

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

This test detects cocaine and its breakdown products in a sample of hair. It can show whether someone has used cocaine recently or over a period of time.

Quick summary

["A hair test can reveal cocaine use over a window of weeks to months, depending on hair length."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
109680-9
Short code
Cocaine Msmt Hair
Synonyms
Cocaine Msmt Hair
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

What Is Being Tested

The test looks for cocaine and its metabolites, the substances the body makes when it breaks down cocaine. Hair can hold traces of these substances as it grows.

Why Hair Is Used

Hair grows slowly and can store drug traces for a long time, so a hair sample may show use over a wider time frame than a blood or urine test. Hair collection is also less invasive than some other methods.

How the Sample Is Collected

A small lock of hair is cut close to the scalp, usually from the back of the head. The sample is sealed and sent to a laboratory for analysis.

What the Results Mean

A positive result suggests cocaine or its metabolites were found in the hair. A negative result suggests they were not detected, though timing of use, hair length, and laboratory methods can affect results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is used in clinical, workplace, and legal settings to help assess cocaine exposure over time. Results should always be interpreted by a qualified professional alongside other information, because hair can be affected by external contamination, cosmetic treatments, and differences in hair growth.

Frequently asked questions

How far back can a hair test detect cocaine use?
It depends on hair length and growth rate. As a general guide, a sample close to the scalp can reflect use over roughly the past several weeks to months, but this varies from person to person.
Can hair products or treatments affect the result?
Yes. Bleaching, dyeing, and some cosmetic treatments can damage hair or remove substances, and external contamination is also possible. The laboratory and the interpreting professional consider these factors.
Does a positive result prove exactly when or how much cocaine was used?
No. Hair testing can suggest that cocaine or its metabolites were present, but it cannot reliably show the exact timing or amount of use. Results are best interpreted with other clinical and historical information.
  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