How does an oral fluid drug tester work?

An oral fluid drug tester, also known as a saliva drug test or oral swab test, works by detecting the presence of drugs or their metabolites in the saliva. The process generally involves the following steps:

 

Collection of Oral Fluid:

A swab or collection pad is placed in the individual’s mouth, typically between the cheek and gums, or under the tongue.
The swab absorbs the oral fluid (saliva), which may contain traces of drugs if the individual has recently used them.
Extraction of Analytes:

The collected oral fluid on the swab is then transferred to a testing device or cartridge.
The device usually contains a pad or strip where the oral fluid is deposited for analysis.
Immunoassay Testing:

The testing device typically uses an immunoassay, which is a biochemical test that relies on the reaction between antibodies and specific drugs or their metabolites.
If drugs are present in the oral fluid, they will bind to the antibodies on the test device, leading to a visible reaction.
Reading Results:

The test results are usually visible within a few minutes. A line or color change on the test device indicates a negative result (no drugs detected).
The absence of a line or color change may suggest the presence of drugs.
Confirmation (if necessary):

In some cases, if the initial test indicates the presence of drugs, a confirmatory test may be conducted using more advanced methods, such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS).

The oral fluid drug test is known for its non-invasiveness and relatively simple collection process compared to urine or blood tests. It is particularly effective in detecting recent drug use, as drugs and their metabolites can appear in oral fluid shortly after ingestion. However, it’s essential to follow proper collection procedures and use reliable testing devices to ensure accurate results.