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Cocaine metabolite benzoylecgonine concentration (urine)

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

This test measures benzoylecgonine, a breakdown product of cocaine found in urine, to help detect recent cocaine use.

Quick summary

["This test helps determine if cocaine was recently used in your system."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
82723-8
Short code
Coc+Benzoylecgon+Cocaethyl Ur Ql Cfm
Synonyms
Coc+Benzoylecgon+Cocaethyl Ur Ql Cfm
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
confirm
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

Benzoylecgonine is one of the primary metabolites of cocaine. After cocaine is metabolized in the body, benzoylecgonine is excreted through urine. This test specifically looks for its presence to assess recent exposure.

Why It’s Done

Healthcare providers may order this test to screen for recent cocaine use, especially in cases of suspected substance abuse, overdose evaluation, or during certain medical or legal evaluations.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A urine sample is collected in a sterile container. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using a sensitive detection method, often high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

How the Results Are Interpreted

Results are reported as a concentration level of benzoylecgonine in the urine. Interpretation depends on clinical context, such as the timing of use and the presence of other substances.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Positive results indicate recent cocaine use, typically within hours to days. This test is useful for identifying acute exposure but does not provide information on long-term effects or dependence. It is often used alongside other tests or clinical assessments for a comprehensive evaluation.

Short name

Benzoylecgonine (BZE) in urine

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results are usually available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on the lab’s processing time.
Can false positives occur with this test?
While benzoylecgonine is specific to cocaine metabolism, other substances or medications may sometimes produce similar metabolites. False positives are rare but can occur if other drugs or conditions influence the test.
What should I do if I have concerns about recent substance use?
If you have concerns about substance use, discuss them openly with your healthcare provider. They can offer guidance, support, and resources tailored to your situation, including referrals to addiction treatment or counseling services.
  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