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Cocaine metabolite screening in saliva

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

This test measures levels of cocaine metabolites in your saliva to detect recent drug use.

Quick summary

["Helps assess exposure to cocaine within hours of use."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
109848-2
Short code
Cocaine Msmt Sal
Synonyms
Cocaine Msmt Sal
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’ve been suspected of using cocaine recently, are undergoing treatment for substance use, or are part of a workplace or legal screening process. Saliva testing is quick and non-invasive, making it useful for monitoring recent drug exposure.

How the Test Works

Saliva is collected (often via a swab) and analyzed using a sensitive immunoassay method to detect specific metabolites of cocaine, such as benzoylecgonine. This test can identify recent use within hours, unlike urine tests that may detect use for days.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to avoid chewing gum, smoking, or eating for a short time before testing to ensure accurate results. Avoiding alcohol or certain medications may also be advised by your provider.

What the Results Mean

Positive results indicate recent cocaine exposure, while negative results suggest no detectable use. However, results alone shouldn’t determine diagnosis or treatment without clinical correlation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Saliva cocaine metabolite test

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means your saliva contained detectable cocaine metabolites, suggesting recent use. This doesn’t confirm the exact amount or duration of use but indicates exposure within hours.
Can false positives occur?
Rarely, but possible if you’ve recently chewed gum, smoked, or consumed certain foods/medications that may interfere with the test. Follow your provider’s instructions to avoid such factors.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 24 hours, depending on lab processing times. Your provider will discuss next steps based on the outcome.
  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