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Cocaine concentration in plasma (24-hour urine)

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

This test measures the presence of cocaine in your urine over a 24-hour period, often used for drug screening or monitoring substance use.

Quick summary

["This test helps detect recent cocaine exposure by analyzing your urine for its metabolites over a full day."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
69008-1
Short code
Cocaine Pnl Mec Cfm
Synonyms
Cocaine Pnl Mec Cfm
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
confirm
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’re being evaluated for substance use, pre-surgery screening, workplace compliance, or other reasons requiring drug detection. It helps track recent use by identifying cocaine metabolites in your urine.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a urine sample in a collection container provided by the lab. If you’re taking certain medications (like some antibiotics or antidepressants), tell your provider—some may affect results.

What the Results Mean

Positive results indicate recent cocaine use, while negative results suggest no detectable cocaine metabolites in your urine over the past 24 hours. Results are qualitative (yes/no) rather than quantitative, so they don’t show exact amounts.

Common Uses and Limitations

This test is commonly used for workplace drug testing, legal proceedings, or medical evaluations. However, it doesn’t distinguish between cocaine use and exposure to its metabolites from other sources (e.g., secondhand smoke). False positives can occur with certain medications or other drugs.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Urine Cocaine Screen

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Follow-up with your provider if you have questions about your results.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
Alcohol itself won’t affect this test, but it’s best to avoid excessive alcohol use before testing, as it may impact your overall health or lab results indirectly. Stick to your usual habits unless advised otherwise by your provider.
What if I take over-the-counter medications?
Some over-the-counter medications (e.g., certain pain relievers or cold remedies) may not directly interfere, but others (like some antidepressants or antibiotics) could cause false positives. Always inform your provider of all medications you’re taking.
  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