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Cocaine metabolite concentration (urine)

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

This test detects the presence of cocaine metabolites in your urine, often used to screen for recent cocaine use.

Quick summary

["A simple urine test to check for recent cocaine exposure."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
16448-3
Short code
Cocaine Ur-aCnc
Synonyms
Cocaine Ur-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The test looks for specific chemical breakdown products (metabolites) of cocaine in your urine. Cocaine breaks down into compounds like benzoylecgonine, which remain detectable in urine for several days after use. This method helps identify recent exposure, typically within 24 to 96 hours after ingestion.

Why It’s Done

Doctors may order this test to evaluate substance use, assess symptoms of cocaine use, or support treatment planning. It can also be used in workplace drug testing or legal proceedings where recent drug use is a concern.

How the Test Works

A small urine sample is collected and analyzed using an immunoassay method. This test is designed to be quick and non-invasive, often providing results within minutes. It screens for the presence of cocaine metabolites rather than the drug itself.

What to Expect

You’ll typically be asked to provide a urine sample in a private area of the lab or clinic. No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or foods that could interfere with results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Cocaine Screen

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within minutes to a few hours, depending on the lab’s processing speed. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you.
Can false positives or negatives happen?
Yes, both false positives and false negatives can occur. Certain medications, foods, or other substances may sometimes cause false positives. False negatives are less common but can happen if the test isn’t done at the right time after use.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result suggests recent cocaine use, but it doesn’t tell you how much was used or for how long. It’s important to discuss the results with your healthcare provider to understand the next steps, such as further testing or treatment options.
  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