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Drug detection times

This table indicates the time it takes for specific drugs to be detectable in blood and urine. The time values in this table are only a general guideline because many variables affect the duration of drug detection, including drug metabolism and half-life, the patient’s physical condition, hydration status, and frequency of ingestion.4 Make sure to check with your facility’s laboratory for specific drug detection times.

DrugBloodUrine
Amphetamines1 to 3 days1 to 2 days4
Cocaine5 to 6 hours (will break down in unrefrigerated blood)2 to 4 days4
Ethanol1 to 12 hours41 to 12 hours4
MarijuanaInfrequent user: 1 to 4 hours
Frequent user: 3 to 6 hours
Infrequent user: 2 to 7 days4
Frequent user: 1 to 2 months4
Opiates1 to 4 hours2 days4
Phencyclidine (PCP)1 to 3 days14 days; up to 30 days in chronic users4