Toxicology reports can be an incredible tool for several different purposes. It is common to use them to screen job applicants, to test current employees, find out reasons that contributed to accidents, and find out if people have substance abuse issues. There are many forms and types of tests that can have different ranges of results, but the end goal of toxicology reports is the same, to find out what substances a person has used recently. Read on to find out what exactly shows up in a toxicology report.

Types of Toxicology Tests

Different types of substance tests can have varying results when it comes to their extent. This is because some tests can either test for a wider range of substances or they are able to test for substance use further back than other tests. The types of tests include:

• Urine – Urine tests are probably the most popular. Plus, it is relatively easy to get a sample and test it. The substances that urine test can detect can vary. This will depend on the type of drug, when was it used, and frequency of use. Furthermore, a urine test is typically the most reliable way to test people for employment purposes and for recent use.
• Blood – Blood tests are another common method of testing. Blood tests can be a bit more extensive than urine tests because certain substances may show up for longer in the blood than they would in the urine.
• Follicle – Follicle testing involves testing the hair follicle of an individual. This is a much more extensive test than blood or urine because it can show a longer time range of substance use. Follicle testing is much less common, but it can be a good way to test for suspected long-term drug use/abuse.
• Saliva – Saliva tests involve swabbing the inside of the mouth to test for substance use. This can be one of the easiest methods of testing to deliver, but it pales in comparison to other toxicology tests when it comes to testing for certain substances. Some substances do not remain detectable in the saliva for as long as they would in blood or urine. In other words, saliva test may not be as accurate as a blood or urine test.

What Shows Up in a Toxicology Report?

A toxicology report is the results of any one of these types of tests. Furthermore, it will display whatever the lab detects in the sample. Most toxicology reports are unable to display how much of a substance was in the system. Rather, the idea is just to show that there was some trace detected in the sample. The type of test can vary, but they are all typically designed to test for the most commonly used and abused substances, including:

• Amphetamines

• Opiates

• Opioids

• Cocaine

• Barbiturates

• Methamphetamine

• Marijuana

• Alcohol

• Phencyclidine (PCP)
• Competitive sports drug

There may be other types of substances out there that some individuals use, but the above is typically a good enough panel to root out what most people would be using.

Looking for Accurate Drug Tests?

If you are looking for accurate drugs tests for prospective or current employees, or to find out if a loved one is using substances, then we have you covered. Here at Soteria Screening Labs, our goal is to provide quality and accurate tests to ensure that the right results are achieved every time. We offer multiple forms and extents of tests to ensure that every individual or company finds the right test for their needs. Feel free to give us a call at (202) 679-6670 or email us at info@soteriascreening with any questions that you may have.