Saliva drug testing kits in Australia are a convenient way to test for illicit substance use. They are portable tools that provide quick results. To use them, swab the absorbent stick inside of the cheek and place it in the testing device. It can detect many types of drugs, including amphetamines, benzodiazepines, cocaine, and marijuana. The results may appear as negative or non-negative based on the colour change or change in line visibility.

Police, employers, and individuals use oral fluid testing to identify people who have recently consumed illegal drugs. The primary advantage of the saliva test kit is that it is easy to use with minimal invasiveness. It can be used in an on-the-spot inspection without needing large equipment. This article will present how to use these tools, what they can detect, and the accuracy and reliability of the testing device.

How to Use Saliva Drug Testing Kits in Australia

Saliva drug testing kits in Australia can be used to determine if an individual has taken illicit drugs within the past 5 to 24 hours. They are easy to use and require minimal preparation. The package typically contains an absorbent collection stick and a testing panel. Some devices use a collection pad, which is placed under the tongue to gather the sample.

Using the saliva drug test kit is a relatively simple screening process. However, it is important to follow the specific instructions of the manufacturer to ensure accurate results. To start, rub the inside of the mouth with the collection device for a few minutes to allow it to absorb enough amount of saliva.

After the sample collection, place the collection stick in a tube or container that comes with the kit. Wait 5 to 10 minutes for the saliva to saturate the panels. Lastly, the panels will show the results. It is vital to read and interpret the results correctly, as different kits may have different indicators for positive and negative outcomes.

Sample Collection Procedure Guidelines to Avoid Contamination

When using a saliva test kit, it is essential to follow the guidelines in collecting the sample:

• The individual should not eat or drink at least 10 minutes before the test.
• Rinse the mouth with water to remove any potential contaminants.
• Use clean and sterile collection containers and equipment.
• Wash hands thoroughly before collecting samples. Additionally, wear gloves when handling the testing device and collection stick.
• Avoid touching the inside of the collection container or the sample with any other objects.
• Place the samples immediately in the container after collection.
• Perform the test in a clean environment.

What Substances Can Saliva Drug Testing Kits in Australia Detect

The saliva drug testing kits in Australia can detect many types of substances. It usually includes the primary drug classes, including amphetamines, benzodiazepines, cocaine, cannabis, and heroin. Others may include MDMA or ecstasy. These substances are the most commonly abused drugs in Australia. This is also included in roadside screening for determining drug driving offences.

The substances detected depend on the type of drug test kit and the number of panels. The higher the number of panels, the more drugs it can detect. Moreover, some may include a panel for alcohol detection. This is suitable for some companies and individuals who want the detection of drugs and alcohol simultaneously.

In some cases, it may also detect prescription medications. This can help determine if a person has been abusing or misusing a certain drug. Furthermore, since each testing kit may vary, it is important to check what substances it includes before purchasing. This helps to ensure it covers the right drug types for specific needs.

Detection Window

The detection window of drugs in saliva samples can vary depending on the specific substance. In general, saliva testing kits can trace drugs within 5 to 48 hours after usage. This is a relatively shorter window in contrast to urine drug testing kits. However, this would depend on the amount, route of administration, and frequency of use.

Amphetamines, cocaine, opiates and marijuana have a window of detection of 24 to 48 hours. Benzodiazepines have a slightly lengthier window of 72 hours. On the other hand, alcohol is detectable in saliva for 6 to 12 hours after consumption.

Accuracy of Saliva Drug Testing Kits in Australia

Saliva drug tests can provide accurate results for several reasons. Firstly, the sample collection is difficult to tamper with. Typically, a licensed collector obtains the specimens following specific techniques. It is also done in plain view, minimising the likelihood of adulteration. Collectors follow the chain of custody procedures to ensure the integrity of the samples.

Secondly, technological advancements improve the capacity of the testing kits to identify drugs. The Australian Standards also set criteria for the reliability of these kits. It includes setting the cut-off level, which is relevant to the regulatory requirements in Australia. Thus, workplaces need to use AS-certified devices to ensure the accuracy and validity of results.

Lastly, the saliva sample is a direct measure of the drug concentration in the body. This eliminates any potential drug metabolites present in urine samples. As such, saliva drug testing kits in Australia provide an accurate and reliable indication of drug use during the detection window. Nevertheless, saliva testing, including urine and blood, can be susceptible to errors or false results due to various factors.

Factors that May Influence the Results

As with any drug testing technique, several factors may influence the results of saliva drug testing. It includes improper sample collection, incorrect storage and handling, and environmental exposure. Furthermore, uncertified devices may have different cut-off levels and sensitivity. Hence, it can produce variations in test results.

Another factor to keep in mind is the intake of over-the-counter or prescription medicines. These medications may have a similar chemical structure to the target drug, which can trigger a false positive result. Lastly, some medical conditions, like diabetes, may have interactions with certain medicines, affecting the drug or alcohol test results.

Conclusion

Saliva drug testing kits in Australia offer companies and individuals a cost-effective way to test for substance use and impairment. It is a portable device that is easy to use and requires a few steps. It involves the collection of oral fluids by swabbing the inside of the mouth with an absorbent stick or pad. Then, immerse the collection stick into a container with a solution. The results will indicate the presence or absence of drugs.

Oral fluid tests can detect a wide range of substances. It includes commonly abused drugs, such as amphetamines, cocaine, marijuana, opiates, and alcohol. Moreover, they have a detection window of 5 to 48 hours from the last use. Hence, the results indicate recent consumption. They are also generally reliable. However, make sure to follow the instructions to ensure accurate results. Lastly, be aware of potential factors that can influence the test to minimise error.