Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Substances Detected in Drugs of Abuse test
3. Testing Methodologies
4. Company Solutions
5. References

Introduction

Drugs of abuse tests are designed to detect the presence of specific illegal or prescription drugs in an individual's system. These tests are crucial in various contexts, including employment screening, legal investigations, clinical diagnostics, and addiction treatment programs. The testing process typically involves analyzing biological samples such as urine, blood, saliva, or hair to identify drug metabolites — the chemical breakdown products of drugs.

Substances Detected in Drugs of Abuse Test

Drug testing panels can vary, but most are designed to detect several common substances. Here are the standard drugs of abuse typically identified in these tests:

• Marijuana (THC): Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the active ingredient in marijuana, can be detected for up to 30 days in urine, whereas blood detection may last up to 14 days.
• Cocaine: Detectable in urine for 2-4 days and up to 2 days in blood.
• Opiates: Includes heroin, morphine, and codeine, with a detection window of 2-3 days in urine and up to 12 hours in blood.
• Amphetamines: Including methamphetamine, typically detectable for up to 2 days in urine, and up to 12 hours in blood.
• Phencyclidine (PCP): Detectable for 7-14 days in urine, and 1-3 days in blood.
• Benzodiazepines: Detectable in urine for 3-7 days, and up to 72 hours in blood.

Testing Methodologies

Drugs of abuse tests are conducted using various methodologies, each with its strengths and limitations:

• Immunoassay Screening: A rapid, cost-effective method typically used for initial screening. It employs antibodies to detect drug metabolites.
• Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS): Used as a confirmatory test due to its high accuracy and capability to quantify specific drugs.
• Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS): Another confirmatory technique providing precise quantification and is particularly useful for newer synthetic drugs.

Company Solutions

Various companies offer comprehensive drug testing solutions, each with unique capabilities tailored to different needs. Some notable providers include:

• LabCorp: Offers a wide range of drug testing services, including urine, hair, and oral fluid tests. Their standardized panels are customizable to meet specific industry needs.
• Quest Diagnostics: Provides extensive drug testing options with a focus on workplace solutions, including immediate and laboratory analysis services.
• Abbott Laboratories: Known for their portable drug testing kits which provide on-site testing capabilities, offering both point-of-care and laboratory options.

References

1. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Guidelines for Drug Testing in the Workplace. URL: [SAMHSA Guidelines](https://www.samhsa.gov/workplace/drug-testing)
2. The Medical Review Officer's Manual: MROCC's Guide to Drug Testing. Authors: David M. Benjamin.
3. LabCorp. Testing Methodologies and Their Applications. URL: [LabCorp Testing](https://www.labcorp.com)
4. Quest Diagnostics. Drug Testing Options. URL: [Quest Diagnostics](https://www.questdiagnostics.com/home/companies/drug-testing-services)