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Cocaine Substance Concentration in Serum/Plasma (Screening)

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

This test measures the presence of cocaine or its metabolites in your blood, helping detect 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
16447-5
Short code
Cocaine SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
Cocaine SerPl-aCnc
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 This Test Measures

Cocaine itself and its active metabolites (like benzoylecgonine) are detected through a chemical process. This screening test helps identify if cocaine has been recently consumed in your system.

Why It’s Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’ve been exposed to cocaine, have symptoms like confusion, rapid heartbeat, or if you’re suspected of drug use in a medical or legal context.

What to Expect

A small blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then analyzed in a lab to check for cocaine-related chemicals.

Preparation

No special preparation is needed. You may eat or drink normally before the test, but avoid alcohol for 24 hours if possible, as it can affect results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Cocaine Screen (Serum/Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

Positive results may indicate recent cocaine use and can guide treatment or further testing for confirmation. Negative results mean no detectable cocaine metabolites were found in this sample.
This test is often used as part of a broader evaluation, such as for workplace safety, legal proceedings, or medical assessment of suspected drug exposure.
How long will I need to wait for results?
Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on your lab’s processing schedule. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you.
Can false positives or negatives happen?
Yes, false positives or negatives can occur due to factors like recent exposure to other substances, certain medications, or lab errors. Confirmatory tests may be needed if initial results are unclear.
  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