Drug Screening Kits 101: What Do They Test for and More

Updated on October 1, 2020
Drugs and drug screen result form in file with stethoscope on white background.

Do you want to maintain a drug-free work environment? Are you applying for a job that tests for drug use? Whether you’re a business owner or job seeker, understand what drug screening kits are and how they work.

Roughly 208 million people worldwide experiment with drugs, including 20 million in the United States alone. Recreational drug use can quickly spiral into addiction without early invention, while 22 million people in the U.S. already struggle with substance abuse.

Statistics only reflect what’s reported. Current substance abuse rates could be much higher.

What does this mean for your life?

Business owners are more likely to experience losses due to employee negligence, while job seekers limit career opportunities.

Discover more sobering facts about drug testing.

Types of Drug Testing Kits

There are six primary methods for drug and alcohol testing.

One of the most recognizable drug tests is “evidential breath alcohol testing,” also known as a breathalyzer. Police officers administer breathalyzer tests if they suspect a driver is under the influence of alcohol.

Law enforcement has additional tests for suspected substance abuse. They may ask a driver to walk in a straight line, count to ten, or touch their nose.

Drivers are also encouraged to buy their own breathalyzer tests to measure blood alcohol levels before getting behind the wheel.

Urine Tests

Another common drug screening kit is the urine test. They’re also one of the most common drug testing methods for employers.

The 10-panel urine test screens for the ten most consumed drugs.

These tests can find traces of the following drugs:

  1. Cocaine
  2. Cannabis (including hash)
  3. Benzodiazepines (Ativan, Xanax, etc.)
  4. Opioids
  5. Methamphetamine (meth)
  6. Quaaludes
  7. Phenobarbitol
  8. Methadone
  9. Amphetamine (speed)
  10. Heroin

Detection times vary, depending on the level of consumption. For example, If you rarely smoke marijuana, it will only be detectable for three days. However, if you consume marijuana frequently, it can stay in your body for more than 30 days.

If you’re worried about light recreational marijuana use showing up on a drug test, abstain from use for a month to be on the safe side. Most employers disclose mandatory drug testing in job ads, but it’s always good practice to abstain completely while job hunting.

Hair Testing

Hair drug tests are also popular with employers. These drug screening kits typically test for marijuana, meth, opioid abuse, and ecstasy.

The hair must be pulled from the root to work properly, and strands should be no less than 1.5 inches in length. Hair tests have a longer detection period than a urine test. One strand of hair can detect three months of drug use.

How to Buy Drug Tests

Buying drug tests has never been simpler. Most employers buy drug kits online. Research your drug screening cost to find the most affordable and effective test for your money.

Anyone can buy a drug test online. If you’re concerned about drug use derailing your job opportunities, purchase a test for peace of mind.

Discover the Right Drug Test

Don’t wait before it’s too late.

Take a drug test to learn if drugs are in your system before applying for that dream job. Employers should also learn about drug screening kits to find the right method for employees

Are you looking for more healthy resources? Visit the blog to discover the latest health and wellness tips.

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