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

This test checks for cocaine exposure in newborns by detecting a cocaine breakdown product (metabolite) in the baby's first stool (meconium).

Quick summary

{"Detects cocaine exposure in newborns through meconium testing","Can identify drug use during pregnancy, typically in the last trimester","Results help healthcare providers provide appropriate care for mother and baby","This is a confirmatory test that follows initial screening","Positive results are kept confidential and used for medical care, not legal reporting"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC: 69012-3
Short code: 3OH-BZE Mec Cfm-mCnt
Synonyms: 3OH-BZE Mec Cfm-mCnt
Category: chemistry
Sample: serum
Container: Red-top tube (SST)
Units: N/A
Fasting: false
Population: adult
Sex: all
Age range: 18–65 years
Method: confirm
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 test looks for 3-hydroxybenzoylecgonine in meconium. This substance is created when the body breaks down (metabolizes) cocaine. Meconium is the dark, sticky first stool that a newborn passes in the first few days of life. Because meconium forms over the last trimester of pregnancy, testing it can reveal whether the mother used cocaine during late pregnancy.

How is the sample collected?

A small sample of meconium (the baby's first bowel movement) is collected from the diaper and sent to a laboratory for testing. This is typically done shortly after birth if there is a concern about maternal drug use during pregnancy.

Why is this test ordered?

Healthcare providers may order this test when: (1) the mother had limited or no prenatal care, (2) there are signs of substance use during pregnancy, (3) the newborn shows symptoms that could be related to drug exposure, or (4) as part of routine screening in certain healthcare settings.

What do the results mean?

A negative result means no cocaine metabolite was detected in the meconium sample. A positive result indicates that the baby was exposed to cocaine during pregnancy. A positive result does not mean the baby is currently in danger, but it helps healthcare providers monitor and care for both mother and baby appropriately.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Will this test be done without my permission?

Testing policies vary by state and hospital. In most cases, healthcare providers will discuss testing with mothers when there is a medical concern. Some hospitals have universal screening policies for newborns, while others only test when there is a specific reason (like inadequate prenatal care or signs of drug exposure).

What happens if the test is positive?

If the test is positive, the healthcare team will work with the mother to provide appropriate care for the newborn. This may include additional monitoring, feeding support, and follow-up care. The mother may also be offered resources for substance abuse treatment and support services. In most cases, positive test results are used for medical care purposes and are not automatically reported to law enforcement.

How long can cocaine be detected in meconium?

Meconium begins forming around week 20 of pregnancy and accumulates until birth. Cocaine and its metabolites can be detected in meconium for several weeks after the last drug use. This makes meconium testing useful for detecting drug exposure during the entire third trimester of pregnancy.

Can a positive result come from anything other than cocaine use?

This test is highly specific for 3-hydroxybenzoylecgonine, which is a unique metabolite of cocaine. It is unlikely to produce a false positive from other substances or foods. However, confirmatory testing is always performed to ensure accuracy.

Will my baby be safe if I used cocaine during pregnancy?

The healthcare team will provide the best care for your newborn based on the test results. Many babies born to mothers who used cocaine are healthy with proper medical care and monitoring. The most important thing is to work with your healthcare providers to get the support and treatment you need. Healthcare providers are there to help, not to judge.

Sources

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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