Oral Fluid Test: Definition, How It Works, & Collection Procedure

An oral fluid test, also known as a saliva test, is a non-invasive method of detecting the presence of drugs and alcohol in the body. It works by using analysis methods to detect traces of the substance or its metabolites in the sample. The collection procedure entails using a swab stick to gather the samples. Then, people use a testing device or send them to a laboratory for analysis.

There are other methods of identifying substance use, such as hair tests, blood tests, and urine tests. The advantage of oral fluid screening is that it is a non-invasive way of testing that can identify recent substance use due to its short detection time. Moreover, people can conveniently use testing kits for onsite testing since saliva tests do not require special facilities. This article will provide information on saliva tests, how they work, and the collection procedure.

What is Oral Fluid Testing?

Oral fluid testing is one method of drug testing that organisations use to detect the presence of drugs or alcohol in the system of an individual. This type of testing is particularly valued for its non-invasive collection procedure. This makes it ideal for onsite testing. Furthermore, it also has a short detection window, which helps trace recent use.

Saliva drug tests are frequently done in various settings, such as healthcare, workplaces, and roads. Law enforcement officers use saliva tests during random roadside tests to identify people driving under the influence. Meanwhile, many employers use oral fluid screening kits to maintain workplace safety. Healthcare professionals also use saliva testing to monitor patients with substance use disorders for abstinence.

People can buy saliva test kits in physical and online stores. There are many products available for various purposes. They may also go to a testing facility and undergo a saliva test there. The availability of saliva testing has many practical advantages that contribute to the safety of the community.

Importance of Saliva Testing in Drug Detection

• Saliva tests provide a convenient option for organisations and people seeking to identify drug abuse.
• It is a test that is easy to conduct without specialised equipment or bathroom facilities. This makes it ideal for random tests in workplaces and on roads.
• The test can identify several substances that the individual recently consumed. As such, it can be an indicator of impairment. This helps with confirming drug use due to reasonable suspicion.
• Oral fluid screening can be less prone to tampering since a collector may conduct the entire process. This promotes a higher level of accuracy and reliability.

How Oral Fluid Testing Works

Oral fluid testing works by analysing the provided oral fluid specimen for the presence of drugs. The saliva test looks for traces of substances or their metabolites, which can be found in biological samples like saliva. The analysis starts when the collector places the samples into the testing device or when the laboratory technicians receive the sample for analysis.

Testing kits use enzyme immunoassays to detect various substances. This technique works by using antibodies specific to certain substances or drug metabolites. When the sample is added to the testing device, any drug substance traced in the saliva will bind to the antibodies, producing a visible reaction. This reaction indicates the presence of drugs in the oral fluid. Laboratories also use immunoassay technology for initial screening.

For more accurate analysis, laboratories may also use advanced equipment. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) can provide reliable and precise results by quantifying the number of substances in the sample. As such, it is the gold standard for confirmatory laboratory testing.

Detectable Substances

Saliva tests can detect several substances, making it an effective tool for identifying misuse. Specifically, the detectable substances depend on the panels available during analysis. Typically, saliva testing kit manufacturers include panels for ethanol and the common drugs of abuse. These cover several prescription drugs and illicit drugs.

The commonly abused drugs include amphetamines, methamphetamines, cocaine, marijuana, benzodiazepines, and opioids. It can also detect ethanol, the active ingredient in most alcoholic beverages. Amphetamines, benzodiazepines, and opioids are high-risk prescription medications due to their propensity for causing dependency. Meanwhile, cocaine and marijuana are illicit recreational drugs.

Sample Collection Procedure for Oral Fluid Testing

The sample collection procedure for oral fluid testing starts with sample collection. It is crucial to follow the instructions of the trained collector or the product details to prepare for this. Otherwise, external factors may influence the saliva samples and interfere with the results.

The collection of specimens typically involves using a swab stick with a collection pad on one end. For active collection, the collector may swab the inner cheek, gums, and tongue for samples. Meanwhile, some only require the individual to place the collection pad under the tongue. Saliva drug testing kits typically have a sample sufficiency indicator to help the users.

Afterwards, the collectors may use the testing device to analyse the sample. They may also send them to the testing laboratory. It is crucial to maintain the chain of custody procedure throughout the process to ensure accurate and reliable results. A drug test kit can provide results within minutes. Meanwhile, it may take a few days for the laboratory reports.

Factors that Can Influence Saliva Samples

Several factors can influence saliva samples when conducting a drug test. As such, individuals must account for these before undergoing a saliva test. Firstly, the person must not eat, drink, or smoke at least 15 minutes before the test. Moreover, they should also know that medications can also interfere with the test results. As such, they should communicate with the testing staff about their medications.

Furthermore, sample tampering or contamination may also occur with improper handling. Hence, collectors must follow the protocols in the Australian Standards to prevent these mishaps. Otherwise, it may lead to severe consequences.

Conclusion

An oral fluid test is a method of testing that analyses saliva samples for the presence of illegal drugs and alcohol. It is particularly valued for its non-invasive and simple collection method. It does not require specific facilities, making it ideal for onsite testing. The testing method works by using immunoassay technology or GC-MS during analysis. These can accurately identify substance misuse. People may also use drug test kits with apt sensitivity and cut-off levels for initial screening.

The sample collection procedure for a mouth swab drug test starts with using a collection stick to gather saliva samples. Depending on the tool, they may conduct active collection by swabbing it across the inner cheeks, tongue, and gums. They may also place the device under the tongue. To avoid inaccurate results, the individual should avoid eating, drinking, or smoking about 15 minutes before the test. Those interested in saliva test kits may consider the Oral ‘Click’ test kit.