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Cocaine in Urine (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the presence of cocaine in your urine to check for recent drug use.

Quick summary

["Detects cocaine use within days of exposure for medical or legal purposes."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
3398-5
Short code
Cocaine Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
Cocaine Ur-mCnc
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

How the Test Works

Your urine sample is analyzed using a specialized laboratory method to identify cocaine metabolites. This helps determine if cocaine was recently consumed, even if it hasn’t been metabolized directly by your body.

Why You Might Need This Test

Doctors may order this test to assess substance use during pregnancy, for workplace drug screening, to monitor treatment progress, or as part of a broader evaluation for substance-related concerns.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to provide a fresh urine sample. Avoiding certain medications or substances (like some painkillers) that could interfere with results may be advised by your healthcare provider.

What the Results Mean

Positive results indicate recent cocaine use, while negative results suggest it hasn’t been detected in your system. Results are qualitative (present or absent) rather than quantitative, so they don’t show exact amounts.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Cocaine Screen

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means your urine contained detectable amounts of cocaine metabolites, suggesting recent use. This could be due to recent exposure, but it doesn’t indicate how much was consumed or for how long.
Can I still drive or operate machinery if I have a positive result?
Yes, but it depends on local laws and your healthcare provider’s advice. Some jurisdictions may require abstinence from substances like cocaine before returning to work or driving, especially if this test was part of a workplace or legal evaluation.
How long does it take to get the results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will contact you once the results are ready.
  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