Oral Fluid Drug Testing – Lab Based
What Is Oral Fluid Drug Testing?
Oral fluid drug testing is an innovative testing method that is quick, reliable, and less intrusive than urine drug testing. Oral drug tests are resistant to common cheating techniques used in urine testing because oral fluid specimens are collected under observation. Dilution tactics and adulteration products are ineffective. Consequently, this type of testing is one of the most popular testing services that Butterfield Testing Solutions offers, including DOT oral fluid testing and instant oral fluid drug testing.
Oral Fluid vs Urine Drug Testing
Oral fluid tests provide results similar to blood testing, measuring molecules present in blood plasma. Unlike urine drug testing, oral fluid laboratory tests detect the parent drug itself rather than just metabolites, making them more accurate for recent drug use.
Oral fluid testing is ideal for post-accident, post-incident, and reasonable suspicion testing, giving a snapshot of substances currently in the system. This helps determine if impairment contributed to an incident. Urine drug testing has a longer detection window, which can make proving recent impairment more difficult.
Onsite drug testing for employment drug testing and drugs/alcohol is an effective way to maintain a drug-free workplace. Oral fluid tests are simple, require no preparation, and provide fast collection.
How long does it take to do a oral fluid drug test?
About 5-10 Min.
How long does it take to get results for an oral fluid drug test?
Varies
Negative results are usually reported within 24-36 hours. Positive results can take 3-5 days.
Detection Window Period
24-48 Hrs.
How An Oral Fluid Drug Test Is Done
Step 1
The subject presents identification to the collector, who records it on a Chain of Custody Form (CCF).
Step 2
The collector gives instructions for the oral fluid collection. The subject swabs their mouth thoroughly, placing the swab between cheek and gum for about 5 minutes.
Step 3
The swab is placed into a vial containing a liquid transport medium. The collector seals the vial, and the subject dates and initials it. After signing the CCF, the collector packages the specimen for shipping to the lab via FedEx or UPS.
Step 4
Upon arrival, the oral fluid laboratory test begins immediately. Negative results are usually reported the same day. Positive screens enter a confirmation process, which may take an additional 3–5 days.
Step 5
Results are reviewed by a Medical Review Officer (MRO). The subject is contacted for an interview and may provide documentation for any valid prescriptions, including fentanyl or other prescription medications.
Things To Know About Oral Fluid Drug Testing
What Drugs Can Be Detected In Oral Fluid Testing?
- Amphetamine
- Methamphetamine (including Ecstasy)
- Cocaine
- Opiates
- Marijuana (THC)
- Phencyclidine
- Barbiturates
- Benzodiazepines
- Methadone
Benefits Of Oral Fluid Testing
- Collections are observed, eliminating tampering with oral fluid specimens
Dilution and adulteration are ineffective, making oral drug tests dependable. - Simple 5-minute collection: swab, snap, and seal; no extra collection devices needed.
- Non-intrusive, minimal embarrassment for donor or collector, improving customer experience.
- Can be used for routine drug testing panel, standard drug tests, esoteric testing, and forensic use products