Employers use drug tests to detect cocaine use routinely. People entering certain jobs or professions are required to submit to cocaine testing. The order for the testing will be made once an applicant has been hired and before the individual begins work.
If the test is failed, the offer to provide employment is withdrawn.
Testing methods for cocaine use
Several methods are used to detect cocaine. The tests detect benzolylecgonine, which is a marker for cocaine.
Urine test for cocaine
An inexpensive test for cocaine is done via a urine sample. This test can detect cocaine use within the past seven days, as well as long-term use of the drug.
Positive triggers for the test are 300 ng/ml. If a positive is reached, another test may be ordered to confirm, but this time the level deemed positive is 150 ng/ml.
Multiple stories about persons beating cocaine tests are provided on the internet. Methods are described, such as attempting to switch urine samples with another person or drinking huge amounts of water before the test. None of the methods is foolproof.
Saliva test for cocaine
Many employers use a saliva test for drug screening. Cocaine testing via saliva sample can detect very recent drug use and give results much quicker than a urine test. Professionals consider this test more accurate than others because it will determine whether an individual has snorted, smoked or swallowed an illegal substance up to 72 hours previously. The downside to saliva testing is that the 72-hour window of consumption is all that the test will detect.
Hair testing for cocaine
A small sample of hair close to the scalp is taken to determine cocaine use. The standard hair follicle screening covers about 90 days prior, but information is dependent upon hair growth.
Hair can be collected from several body areas if no hair is found on the head. Hair testing is considered more accurate than urine testing to determine low but steady drug use over extended periods.
Drugs get into hair via metabolites processed by the body. As the drugs and metabolites circulate through the system, they enter the hair follicles.
Blood testing for cocaine
Blood tests are the most invasive of cocaine tests and must be conducted in a medical laboratory. Small amounts of cocaine may be detected via blood sample for 48 hours after use.
Although much effort is made by users to thwart drug tests, they are often effective. People who habitually use cocaine tend to become addicted. Cocaine use can be the reason for many negative consequences in a person’s life, job loss being just one example. If this is your situation, you may be paying too high a price to use cocaine.
Treatment to get clean and start a sober, productive lifestyle is readily available. Aftermath Addiction Treatment Center in Wakefield, Massachusetts, has the cutting-edge procedures and followup needed to intervene and treat cocaine addiction.
Addiction research has confirmed the co-occurring thought disorders that often underlie addictive behaviors. Recovery coaches and Psychotherapists are available to evaluate and counsel those needing treatment for cocaine addiction. Medicated detox is performed under the care of a physician.
Please call Aftermath Addiction Treatment Center today at 855-795-1226.
Don’t wait to renew your future.