| 1. |
Device should test for the drugs recommended by SAMHSA |
|
The Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has published proposed guidelines recommending that saliva based tests detect amphetamines, methamphetamines, MDMA, cocaine, opiates, PCP and THC. |
| 2. |
Marijuana detection |
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Many tests on the market are designed to detect THC metabolite (THC-COOH). Studies have shown that marijuana use will only be detected by testing for the residual parent drug. Therefore, detection of THC parent drug is required. |
| 3. |
Sensitivity / Cut-offs |
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Drugs are present at much lower levels in saliva than in urine. Use a test that has the lowest cut-off levels to optimize identifying drug users. |
| 4. |
Easy, rapid collection |
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The collection of the saliva sample should be easy and should not take more than a few minutes. |
| 5. |
Sample volume indicator |
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Inadequate sample volume is a key factor in test failure in oral fluid testing. A sample adequacy feature can ensure that the correct amount of oral fluid is collected from every donor, every time, optimizing product performance. |
| 6. |
Same sample used for confirmation |
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The collection device should provide for a split sample, allowing the same sample to be sent for confirmation if necessary. |
| 7. |
Training and Support |
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Oral fluid testing is relatively new, therefore training provided by a manufacturer should be comprehensive. Ongoing technical support is critical to maintaining an effective drug testing program. A manufacturer should provide both training and support. |
| OralStat® - the RIGHT choice! |
