Coke is a common name for cocaine, a powerful stimulant drug that can have short-lived but intense effects on the brain and body.
From the recent use of cocaine or its metabolites can remain detectable on a hair test for an extended period, ranging from months to even years.
How Long Does Cocaine Stay In Your Hair?
Cocaine metabolites can remain in the hair for up to three or more months after the last drug use.
One of the ways to detect cocaine use is through a hair follicle drug test. This type of test can reveal if someone has used cocaine or other drugs in the past 90 days, which is much longer than urine or saliva tests.
Hair follicle tests are usually conducted in a hospital or outpatient lab setting. They require a small sample of hair from the scalp or other parts of the body. The hair sample is then analyzed for traces of drugs using a chemical process. Hair follicle tests are not affected by washing, dying, or styling the hair.
Factors That Affect Detection Times:
The detection time of cocaine in the hair can vary depending on several factors, such as:
- How much cocaine is used
- How often cocaine is used
- History of drug abuse
- Hydration level
- Body composition (body fat, weight, height)
- Genetics
- Age
People who use cocaine more frequently or in higher doses may have higher levels of cocaine metabolites in their hair. People who have a history of drug abuse may also have longer detection times due to how their body adapts to the drug over time. People who are dehydrated, have more body fat, or have slower metabolism may take longer to eliminate the drug from their system. People who are younger, more active, or have faster metabolism may have shorter detection times.
Why Are Drug Screens Used?
Drug screens are used for various purposes, such as:
- Pre-employment screening
- Drug-free workplace programs
- Monitoring prescription opioid use
- Sports organizations (e.g., screening for steroid use among athletes)
- Criminal investigations and forensic purposes
- Court-mandated drug testing
Drug screens may be ordered by healthcare providers, courts, employers, or other authorities as a condition of employment, treatment, probation, or participation. Drug screens may be supervised or unsupervised. Drug screens can help identify people who have a problem with drug abuse and may need substance abuse treatment.
Signs Of Cocaine Use:
Cocaine use can cause noticeable signs and symptoms that may indicate a drug problem. Some of the signs of cocaine use are:
- Dilated pupils
- Runny nose or nosebleeds
- Rapid speech and movement
- Restlessness and agitation
- Paranoia and hallucinations
- Mood swings and irritability
- Loss of appetite and weight
- Financial and legal troubles
- Social and occupational problems
Cocaine use can also lead to addiction, which is a chronic brain disorder that makes it hard to stop using the drug despite negative consequences. People who are addicted to cocaine may experience cravings, withdrawal symptoms, tolerance, dependence, and loss of control over their drug use.
