Cocaine Screening

This screening focuses specifically on cocaine by detecting its primary metabolite, benzoylecgonine, in urine. The body converts cocaine into benzoylecgonine after use, and this metabolite may remain detectable in urine for a longer period than cocaine itself. The approximate detection window is two to four days, though this can vary depending on individual factors such as metabolism, hydration, and usage patterns.

This test may be relevant for:

• Individuals who wish to verify the presence or absence of cocaine metabolites for their own information
• People who need a focused, single-substance screening
• Anyone seeking documentation of a cocaine-specific screening result

This test measures a single marker:

• Cocaine metabolite (benzoylecgonine): measured in urine, expressed in ug/l. Benzoylecgonine is the primary metabolite that the body produces after cocaine use and is the standard marker used in laboratory screening. The approximate detection window is two to four days, though this may be longer in cases of sustained or heavy use.

A positive result indicates that benzoylecgonine was detected above the laboratory's reporting threshold, suggesting that cocaine may have been present in the body within the detection window. A negative result means that the metabolite was not detected above the threshold at the time of sample collection.

Screening results provide an indication of detection or non-detection. If a positive result is obtained, confirmation testing using a more specific method may be performed to verify the finding. The test does not indicate the quantity or frequency of use.

The test requires a urine sample, collected at a certified sample point (afnamepunt). A mid-stream sample is collected under the guidance of trained personnel. The process is straightforward and takes only a few minutes.

This test may be considered when:

• A focused screening for cocaine metabolites is desired
• Personal insight into whether cocaine metabolites are present is wanted
• Documentation of a cocaine-specific screening result is needed

The result is reported as detected or not detected. A positive result suggests that cocaine use may have occurred within the approximate detection window (two to four days). A negative result indicates that the metabolite was not found above the reporting threshold.

Individual factors such as metabolism, hydration level, and the amount and frequency of use may influence how long the metabolite remains detectable. Results should be interpreted in context and may be discussed with a healthcare provider if needed.

Collect a mid-stream urine sample at the sample point. Hydrate normally beforehand. Over-hydration may dilute the sample and could affect the reliability of the result. No other specific preparation is required.

Results are typically available within a few working days. The report indicates whether the cocaine metabolite was detected or not detected.

If the initial screening produces a positive result, confirmation testing may be performed using a more specific analytical method. The final report includes the confirmed outcome. A healthcare provider can help interpret the results in context if desired.