Cocaine urine test
Quick answer: This test checks urine for cocaine or its breakdown products, either as a yes-or-no screen or as a measured level. It is done for medical reasons such as emergencies, or for workplace or legal screening.
- SampleUrine
- TakesA few minutes to give the sample
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed; tell staff about any medicines you take.
How the test is done
- 1You give a urine sample in a private area
- 2Staff may check the temperature and seal the container
- 3The sample is screened for cocaine breakdown products
- 4A positive screen may be sent for confirmation testing
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A positive screen is usually confirmed by another method, so discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result means cocaine or its breakdown products were detected, and a confirmation test may follow. A negative result means none were found above the test's cut-off level.
Who usually has this test
People with chest pain, agitation or fast heartbeat in an emergency, and people needing workplace or legal screening.
Risks and aftercare
Giving urine has no physical risk; you can leave straight afterwards.
Names and options
Also called: cocaine screen
Options
- Qualitative (screen)
- Quantitative (level)
Listed by the hospital as
- COCAINE, URINE (QUALITATIVE)
- COCAINE, URINE (QUANTITATIVE)
Questions about this test
How long can cocaine be detected in urine?
Its breakdown products are usually found for a few days after use, and sometimes longer after heavy use. It varies by person.
Can medicines cause a positive cocaine test?
False positives are uncommon because the test looks for a specific breakdown product. Tell staff about any medicines or local anaesthetics you have had.
What is the difference between a screen and a measured level?
A screen gives a yes-or-no result above a cut-off. A measured level shows the amount, which can help in some medical or legal situations.
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Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.