When it comes to drug testing, saliva tests are becoming increasingly common.
This type of screening is often used as a workplace drug test or to test young people in schools, but it can also be used for other purposes.
Saliva tests are relatively quick, easy to administer, and provide more accurate results than urine tests.
But what exactly is a saliva drug test? How does it work? And why is it so effective?
In this guide, we’ll be taking an in-depth look at saliva drug tests —everything from how to prepare for one to how you can ensure you have accurate results.
You’ll better understand the effectiveness of this drug testing method and discover helpful tips for both those being tested and those administering the tests.
What is a Saliva Drug Test?
If you ask yourself, “What is a saliva drug test?” we can help. A saliva drug test is a type of drug screening test that looks for drugs or their metabolites in the saliva.
One popular way for conducting saliva tests is using an oral tox test, which delivers accurate and fat results.
It can detect a wide range of drugs, from THC to cocaine and amphetamines, and is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to urine or blood testing.
Saliva drug tests are becoming more commonplace due to their quick turnaround time.
Also, the ability to administer them quickly, easily, and accurately compared to other testing methods.
In addition, they are non-invasive, meaning samples do not have to be collected from a vein or finger-prick.
Furthermore, as saliva samples only need to be taken within a small window of time before the drugs metabolize in the body, they are better able to detect recent use than blood or urine tests.
This makes them great for testing when there is suspicion that someone has been using drugs recently— such as pre-employment screenings or random workplace drug checks.
Advantages of Saliva Drug Tests
No matter where you are, saliva drug tests are becoming an increasingly popular way to test for drugs.
This is because they have many advantages over other testing methods, such as urine tests.
But why should you use a saliva drug test? Here are just a few of the benefits:
1. Easy to administer
Saliva drug tests can be administered quickly and easily, making them ideal for on-the-spot testing.
All that needs to be done is to collect the sample, which can be done in less than 5 minutes – no need for complicated preparation or costly equipment!
2. Non-invasive sampling procedure
A saliva sample does not require an invasive procedure like a blood sample, making it much more comfortable and convenient for the tested person.
It’s also less likely to be tampered with and more hygienic than a urine sample.
3. Accurate results in minutes
The results of this type of drug test are highly accurate and reliable. They provide quick results – usually within minutes.
This makes them great for the workplace or roadside testing. Plus, they detect drugs that may have been taken up to 72 hours before being tested.
Saliva drug tests provide many advantages over other testing methods, especially regarding convenience and accuracy.
This could be the perfect solution if you’re looking for an easy-to-administer drug test that gives fast and accurate results!
Disadvantages of Saliva Drug Tests
You might already know some of the advantages of saliva drug tests, but there are also a few drawbacks.
1. Cost
Saliva drug tests tend to cost more than urine and blood drug tests. While they may be more convenient and less invasive than other methods, they can be pricey.
2. Detection Window
Another downside is that saliva drug tests can only detect recent drug use—generally within the last 12-24 hours.
This means that they may not be as effective for long-term or chronic drug use as other forms of testing can detect drugs in the system weeks or even months after use.
3. Limited Types of Drugs Tested For
Finally, note that saliva drug tests have limited detection capabilities compared to urine and blood tests.
Generally, saliva tests can only detect marijuana use, whereas blood and urine tests have a broader scope of coverage for substances, including amphetamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and opiates.
How to Prepare for a Saliva Drug Test
Saliva drug test swabs are quick and easy, but if you want to make sure you give a transparent sample, there are a few things you can do to prepare.
It’s essential to remember that saliva drug tests are designed to detect recent drug use.
So, if it’s been less than 24-48 hours since your last use of drugs or alcohol, it’s essential to be prepared.
1. Stop Drug Use Immediately
The most important thing is to stop using any drugs or alcohol as soon as possible—the longer you wait before the test, the better your chances are of passing.
If you can’t stop using immediately, try reducing your intake as much as possible.
This will give your body time to metabolize and flush out the drugs in your system.
However, remember that this will take time and may not be enough!
2. Drink Water
Drinking lots of water before the drug test is an excellent way to reduce toxins in your system—just be sure not to overdo it!
Drinking too much water can dilute your saliva sample and make it harder for the tester to detect any traces of drugs.
So drink enough water to stay well hydrated while avoiding overdoing it.
3. Avoid Used Items
It’s a good idea to avoid handling anything that someone else has used recently (like cigarette lighters or cups).
These contain traces of saliva from other people which could interfere with your results.
Drug Substances That Can Be Detected Through Saliva Tests
Did you know that saliva drug tests can detect various drugs, both illegal and prescription?
Saliva tests are becoming increasingly popular as they are much less intrusive than urine and blood tests, so it’s worth familiarizing yourself with them.
Detectable Drugs
The detectable drugs in saliva testing vary but most commonly include the following:
- Amphetamines and methamphetamines
- MDMA
- Marijuana and metabolites (THC)
- Cocaine and metabolites
- PCP
- Opiates like heroin and codeine
- Benzodiazepines like Xanax and Valium
- Alcohol (ethyl / ethylglucuronide)
So even though saliva is known for its ability to detect recent drug use, it has a shorter detection window of 1-3 days.
It can also test for certain substances over extended periods, such as alcohol. Now that’s something to keep in mind.
Best Practices for Ensuring Accuracy With Saliva Drug Tests
When it comes to saliva drug testing, accuracy is vital. Fortunately, there are some best practices you can adopt to make sure your results are accurate.
Test Collection Process
One of the most important things you can do to ensure accuracy is closely follow the test collection process.
This includes following all the steps for specimen collection and proper storage and handling of the samples.
It will help ensure that the specimen collected is valid and not contaminated.
Chain of Custody Documentation
Another critical step is documenting all components of the chain of custody.
This includes collecting contact information from donors, documenting controlled access to sample collection areas, and maintaining a chain of custody form at all times, which tracks any changes in possession or control over a sample.
Timeliness
In addition, it’s important to remember that saliva drug test results are only valid if collected within a specific window after drugs have been used; typically, this window is under 48 hours.
So ensure your organization has policies for administering timely tests when necessary.
Conclusion
Saliva drug tests are becoming increasingly popular and can detect drug use over a few days.
It is essential to know how to pass a saliva drug test, including when a test might happen and how to prepare for it.
There are several ways to detox your system to pass a saliva test. Avoiding drug use is the best way.
However, there are other options if you need to be sure, including over-the-counter and home remedies.
Knowing what to expect and taking the necessary steps can help ensure passing a saliva drug test.
