After cannabis use, THC is rapidly metabolized to compounds that are excreted in urine over an extended period. The major urine metabolite, THC-COOH, can be detected for several days in occasional users and weeks in chronic users. LC-MS/MS testing identifies and quantifies metabolites with high specificity.
This test is used to confirm presumptive positive screens, support clinical assessment in addiction medicine and pain management, and provide medico-legal documentation. Quantitative values can sometimes help distinguish recent from prior use, though many factors affect interpretation. Sample type is urine.