The Cocaine Dipstrip Urine drug test is based on the concept of immunochromatographic assay for determining the presence of cocaine (COC) and the metabolite benzoylecgonine in the urine of the concerned person. Though this test is very simple to use, it gives accurate and reliable results. Speedy results can be obtained using this kit. This kit uses a cut-off rate of 300 ng/ml of cocaine, which has been approved by the SAMHSA. EXPLANATION OF THE TEST: The consumption of cocaine leads to stimulation of the nerves. Cocaine, which is extracted from coca leaves, also acts as an anesthetic. This substance gives rise to psychological effects in the user, such as induced happiness, energy and confidence. Cocaine also gives rise to other physical effects such as rapid heartbeats, enlargement of the pupils, fever, sweating, and tremors. This substance can be consumed orally, nasally, intravenously, or by smoking. The consumption of cocaine can be determined by studying the level of benzoylecgonine in the urine. The half-life of benzoylecgonine is about 5-8 hours, while that of cocaine is ½ hour to 1-1/2 hours. Benzoylecgonine is present in the urine for a period of 24 to 80 hours after the consumption of cocaine. The cut-off rate used by this test is 300 ng/ml of COC. This test makes use of the reactions between antigens and antibodies, which are studied to determine the presence of specific substances in biological fluids. |
