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Cocaine (Including Crack Cocaine) and Methamphetamine Use Assessment — Past 3 Months

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test assesses exposure to cocaine, including crack cocaine, and methamphetamine during the past 3 months. A positive result does not by itself establish impairment or the timing of use.

Quick summary

["A positive result indicates possible exposure to cocaine or methamphetamine, but interpretation depends on the specimen, test method, and circumstances."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
96857-8
Short code
Used cocaine/crack/meth past 3Mo
Synonyms
Used cocaine/crack/meth past 3Mo
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
20 N/A – 400 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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 is this test?

This is a laboratory assessment of past exposure to cocaine, including crack cocaine, and methamphetamine. The past-3-month wording reflects the intended detection period, although the exact window depends on the specimen, exposure pattern, and laboratory method.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be requested for substance-use monitoring, treatment, employment, insurance, or legal purposes. It may also help clinicians evaluate possible drug exposure when use is suspected.

How is the test performed?

A laboratory analyzes the collected specimen for cocaine and methamphetamine, usually beginning with a screening test. Any positive screening result may require confirmatory testing because screening tests can sometimes react unexpectedly to medications or other substances.

How do I prepare for the test?

Collect the specimen exactly as instructed and tell the laboratory about all prescription medications, over-the-counter products, supplements, and other drug use. Do not try to alter, substitute, or clean the specimen, as this can make the result unreliable.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Cocaine and Methamphetamine Use

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean someone was recently using drugs?
Not necessarily. It indicates possible exposure and cannot establish the exact time, dose, or level of impairment; confirmatory testing and other information may be needed.
Is crack cocaine tested differently from cocaine?
Crack cocaine is a form of cocaine. Laboratories may report cocaine and its metabolites together, although the exact analytes depend on the test method.
Can this test really detect use from the past 3 months?
The test is intended to assess that period, but detectability varies with the specimen, amount and frequency of exposure, and laboratory method. A negative result does not completely rule out use.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy