Oral Drug Testing FAQs

Which drugs can be detected in oral fluid?
Our lab's standard oral fluid drug testing detects marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines and PCP. (Ecstasy testing is also available, upon request.)

What testing methodology does EBI employ?
We use a laboratory screen followed by a confirming test when a sample shows positive. Here are the details: oral fluid samples are first screened in the laboratory {using enzyme immunoassay technology); any samples that test positive are then subjected to gas chromatography/mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (the most accurate technology for confirming positive results).

What are the time parameters for the oral fluid detection window?
The window of detection in oral fluid testing varies from one to three days, depending on the drug(s) found in the body. Urine testing (which relies on drug metabolites retained in the body's waste) may detect some drugs for a longer period of time; however, oral fluid is better at identifying very recent usage (which can be missed by urine testing).

How is test data logged and reported?
As with all laboratory-based testing, results are logged in EBI's computers and reported via the client's specified process.

Who collects the test sample?
In what amounts to a five minute procedure, the donor places the collection pad in his mouth (between the cheek and gum) for a minimum of two minutes. Once the absorbent collection pad is saturated, it is placed in a vial by the donor (under the direct visual supervision of the testing employee); the handle of the collection device is snapped off, the vial is sealed, and the donor initials the seal. The entire process takes just five minutes.

Isn't oral fluid considered hazardous?
OSHA does not consider oral fluid collection hazardous. Oral fluid specimens, however, should be handled with care, like any other body fluids.

What is the turnaround time?
The laboratory receives samples via overnight courier. Testing is performed the same morning that the samples arrive; negative results are reported by early afternoon, and passed immediately to the client. Positive results are recorded, confirmed, reviewed and then reported within 72 hours of receipt.

How do you know if you have enough sample to test?
The testing sample will be sufficient 9,999 times out of 10,000 if the donor keeps the collection pad in his mouth for at least two minutes.

How does oral fluid testing stack up cost-wise against urine testing?
Oral fluid testing costs less than urine testing, especially when directly related expenses are factored into the equation. When the cost of collections is significantly decreased, when scheduling fees are eliminated, when lost time is minimized – and when the hiring process is streamlined and turbo-charged, making your candidates happier and giving you a leg up on your competitors – your bottom line looks that much better.