How Long Cocaine Stays in the System

Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant drug. While it is mostly used illicitly, it has roots in the medical field and may be used as an anesthetic in certain clinical settings.1

This article will examine the amount of time cocaine stays in a person’s body, including timelines and drug test detection.

How Long Does Cocaine Stay in Your System?

The length of time that cocaine stays in a person’s system can vary. The high from snorting cocaine may last anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes. The high from smoking has a more rapid onset, but may last only 5 to 10 minutes.

Effects include:2

  • Euphoria.
  • Enhanced mental alertness.
  • Dilated pupils.
  • Increased blood pressure and heart rate.
  • Elevated body temperature.

Note: If you or someone you know is spending a lot of time worrying about how long cocaine or any other substance stays in the system, it could be an indication of an addiction to cocaine.

How Long After Use Will Cocaine Show Up On A Drug Test?

When a person consumes cocaine, the liver primarily converts it to the metabolites benzoylecgonine and ecgonine methyl ester. Many individuals may think that drug tests screen for cocaine, but they actually test for benzoylecgonine because its concentration in urine is 50 to 100 times greater than that of cocaine.3

The length of time it takes for cocaine to be eliminated from a person’s body depends on the following factors:4

  • Volume of cocaine consumed
  • How regularly or frequently cocaine is used
  • A person’s rate of metabolism

Below are timeframes for cocaine detection in drug tests. All of these timeframes are based on estimates; individual cases may vary.

  • A saliva test can reveal cocaine use within minutes after consumption and for up to 2 days.5
  • Cocaine use may be detectable in hair for up to 90 days.6
  • In urine, cocaine is often detectable for about 3–4 days, though it may be detectable up to 10 days after a binge.3,4 In heavy users, cocaine can show up on a urine test for up to 2 weeks.7
  • Blood testing can identify cocaine for up to 2 days.7

Frequently Asked Questions About Cocaine

Getting Help for a Cocaine Addiction

At our inpatient rehab facility in Las Vegas, Nevada, we provide a full range of care, from medical detox and inpatient or residential treatment to sober living and various levels of outpatient services.

Our admissions navigators are available around the clock to answer any questions about paying for rehab and start the admissions process.

Or you can check whether we accept your health insurance and verify your benefits by filling out this quick and confidential

The only way to be certain you will pass a drug test is to stop using cocaine. If you feel like you’ve lost control of your cocaine use and need help quitting, contact us at today.

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