Saliva drug tests are mouth swab tests. They detect recent drugs used by analyzing your saliva. It’s used at workplaces and road sites due to its noninvasive nature and quick results.
How do saliva drug tests work?
•. The tester collects a swab of the saliva from inside your cheek. It is quick and painless. Testing takes few minutes only
• The sample is either tested on-site or sent to a lab immediately to identify specific substances. Most on-site tests give results within minutes, although lab tests may take more than 24 hours.
What substances can it detect?
• Saliva drug tests identify cannabis, cocaine, amphetamines, methamphetamines, opiates, and alcohol.
• The time frame for these drugs detection vary. It takes 24 hours for cannabis to show up on the drug test. Cocaine is detectable for one or two days, amphetamines are detectable for two to four days, and alcohol is detectable for up to 24 hours.
• The time frame varies based on factors like frequency of use and metabolism of the individual.
Why purchase saliva drug tests?
• Saliva drug tests are known as invasive. There is no need for needles or urine samples.
• The on-site analysis gives quick results, sometimes in minutes. It’s ideal for time-sensitive situations.
• Its tough to tamper with. The collection occurs under supervision, so altering the sample is not easy.
• These are more cost-effective and affordable than other testing methods.
However, there are certain limitations to these drug tests. They have a short detection window. They can only detect recent drug use and may not identify substances beyond a few days prior. There is also a potential for false positives. Certain foods or medications impact results. However, confirmatory lab tests address this issue.
What factors influence accuracy?
• Frequency and amount of use extend detection.
• Metabolism can also impact the results. Individuals with faster metabolism eliminate substances quickly.
• Hydration can impact saliva concentration, however its impact on the results is minimal.
Legal considerations before using saliva drug tests
Most employees use saliva drug tests during hiring. They are used for random checks as well. A positive result impacts employment status. Also, law enforcement uses these tests during roadside stops.
If appearing for a saliva drug test, avoid eating or drinking 10 minutes before the accuracy test. If you are taking medications, inform the tester of the prescription or over-the-counter pills you are taking. Some of these can affect the results.
Although saliva drug tests are popular, there are other methods like urine and blood tests. Urine tests have a longer detection window. They easily detect past use but are invasive and less convenient.
The same goes for blood tests. They are most accurate but also quite expensive and invasive. They are only used in specific medical or legal contexts.
Saliva drug tests are convenient. They are an efficient method for detecting recent drug use. When you understand the function and detection window, you can understand situations where these drug tests are administered.