How far back will a mouth swab drug test go
Drug testing is a common practice used by employers, law enforcement, and medical professionals to detect the presence of drugs in a person's system. One popular method of drug testing is the mouth swab drug test. It's a quick, non-invasive way to test for drugs that is gaining popularity among employers and parents who want to keep a check on their employees and children, respectively. But how far back can a mouth swab drug test detect drug use? In this blog post, we'll explore this question in more detail.
If you would like to purchase a mouth swab drug test for the workplace click here
What is a mouth swab drug test?
Before we dive into the question of detection times, let's first understand what a mouth swab drug test is. A mouth swab drug test involves taking a swab of the inside of a person's cheek, gums, or tongue, which is then tested for the presence of drugs. This method of drug testing is considered less invasive and easier to administer compared to other drug tests, such as urine or hair tests.
How long does a mouth swab drug test detect drugs?
The detection window of a mouth swab drug test is relatively short, typically ranging from a few hours up to 2-3 days. This is because drugs are quickly metabolised and eliminated from the body through the saliva. However, it's important to note that the detection window can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of drug used, the frequency of use, the dosage, and the individual's metabolism.
For example, marijuana can be detected in saliva for up to 24 hours after use, while cocaine can be detected for up to 2-3 days. Heroin and other opioids can be detected for up to 12 hours after use. However, it's important to note that these detection times are not set in stone and can vary from person to person.
Is a mouth swab drug test accurate?
While a mouth swab drug test is less invasive and easier to administer compared to other drug tests, it may not be as accurate or reliable as other methods, such as urine tests. This is because the concentration of drugs in saliva can vary depending on the individual's oral hygiene, food intake, and other factors. Additionally, some drugs may not be detectable in saliva even if they are present in the body, making the results less accurate.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a mouth swab drug test can detect drugs in the saliva for a relatively short period of time, typically ranging from a few hours up to 2-3 days. However, the detection window can vary depending on several factors, and the accuracy of the results may not be as reliable as other drug testing methods.
If you are looking for accurate and reliable mouth swab drug test kits we have an extensive range here at UK Drug Testing available to buy online. If you need any help or advice please contact our UK based customer support team, who will be happy to help. They are available Monday to Friday by chat telephone and email.
See our most frequently asked questions on mouth swab drug test kits