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The Cocaine Cassette Urine drug test is a test designed for determining the presence of cocaine in the urine of the concerned person. Primarily, it determines the presence of benzoylecgonine in the urine. This test is very simple to use. If the level of benzoylecgonine in the urine is above 300 ng/ml, a positive result is indicated. This is the cutoff rate as per the SAMHSA guidelines. This kit gives an idea of the concentration of drugs in the urine. However, it should be accompanied by the results of other, more specific testing. Usually, Gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC/MS) are used for this purpose. In order to get confirmed results, the results obtained by using such kits should be supported by laboratory results and expert opinions. This is especially true when the initial test result is positive.
EXPLANATION OF THE TEST
The drug cocaine is obtained from coca leaves. Consumption of cocaine leads to stimulation of the nerves and also acts as an anesthetic. The consumption of cocaine gives rise to psychological effects such as elation, confidence and a sudden spurt of energy. Along with these effects, physical effects have also been observed due to the usage of cocaine, such as rapid heart beats, pupil dilation, fever, tremors and sweating. Cocaine can be consumed in different ways – by smoking, orally, by inhalation or in an intravenous manner. The presence of benzoylecgonine in the urine indicates the consumption of cocaine. Benzoylecgonine is reflected in the urine a short while after a person consumes cocaine. Cocaine has a biological half-life of 0.5 to 1.5 hours, while that of benzoylecgonine is 5 to 8 hours. Benzoylecgonine can be found in the urine for 24-80 hours after the consumption of cocaine. The reactions between antigens and antibodies are used by the COC Cocaine Test. The same principle is used for studying the substances present in biological fluids. 300 ng/ml of COC is the ideal sensitivity of this test.
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