A saliva-based substance examination assesses the presence of drugs and their metabolites. This non-invasive method offers a convenient alternative to urine or blood testing and typically screens for a range of common substances, including marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, and opiates. A positive result indicates detection of the substance above a pre-defined cutoff level. For example, detecting amphetamines might suggest recent use or exposure.
Saliva testing offers several advantages, including ease of sample collection, reduced potential for adulteration, and real-time monitoring capabilities. Its rapid turnaround time makes it suitable for various applications, from workplace drug screening to roadside testing by law enforcement. The development and refinement of these tests have played a crucial role in improving drug detection and monitoring over recent decades.