Cocaine in Urine (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the presence of cocaine in your urine to check for recent use.
["Detects cocaine exposure within days of use."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 18208-9
- Short code
- Cocaine Spec-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Cocaine Spec-mCnc
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of cocaine use, such as rapid heart rate, confusion, or if you’re suspected of drug use in a workplace or legal setting. It can also be part of routine screening for substance use disorders or pre-employment checks.
What to Expect During the Test
You’ll provide a urine sample in a sterile container. The lab will analyze it using a specialized method to detect cocaine metabolites. No special preparation is needed, but avoid drinking excessive fluids before testing if instructed.
How the Results Are Interpreted
Results are typically reported as a positive or negative for cocaine metabolites. A positive result indicates recent use, but it doesn’t confirm the exact amount or timing of use. Follow-up testing may be needed for confirmation.
What the Results Mean for You
A positive result means cocaine or its breakdown products were found in your urine. This doesn’t necessarily mean you’re addicted, but it signals recent use. Discuss your results with your healthcare provider to understand next steps, such as counseling or treatment options.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Urine Cocaine Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does cocaine stay in urine?
What does a positive result mean for my health?
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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