Frequently asked questions about drug test and testing

Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Tests And Drug Testing

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Q1 What is an instant Drug Test Kit and how does it work?

A1 - An instant Drug Test Kit is a self-contained urinalysis drug test that detects the presence of drug metabolites in urine within minutes. The cup contains detection strips each designed to test a particular drug at NIDA cut-off levels. It provides instant results using a technology similar to that found in home pregnancy tests. Through the patented delivery system, urine reacts with the reagents and antigens on the strip to produce a colormetric reading indicating either positive or negative test results. Go to the products page to see a UA Test Kits demonstration. Or, see our Home Drug Test page.

Q2 How does the instant Drug Test Cup compare to the other cups and testing procedures?

A2 - The leading cups require significant manipulation or handling of the cup in order to activate the test. You must either tilt the cup or insert detection strips into the cup in order to initiate contact with the specimen. During testing, these cups are not sealed which puts the tester at greater risk of specimen exposure, accidents, tampering, and retesting. Should the specimen deliver a positive reading, further handling of the cups or split-samples are needed in order to prepare them for shipping to a confirmation lab. Other urine drug testing products, such as testing strips, require direct handling of urine via pipettes, can take up to 45 minutes for results and also require split-sampling. Drug Test Cup, on the other hand, doesn't require any steps to activate the test. Simply void urine into the cup and wait for the results. The cup is also ready to be shipped should it be necessary to confirm a positive reading. It's a simpler, safer, and saner approach to drug testing. For a side by side comparison of UA Test Kits™ against the leading drug test cups, please see our comparison chart.

Q3 How can my business benefit from using instant Drug Test Kits

A3 - Instant Drug Test Kits are ideal for businesses that conduct pre-employment, random, and/or post-accident drug testing. Because of its ability to deliver instant results, Instant Drug Test Kits allow your new employees to begin work immediately. (Compare that to waiting 24 - 72 hours for laboratory drug testing.) It also allows you to proceed both timely and knowledgeably during post-accident investigations. This is especially true for those companies conducting remote site testing. Not only do instant Drug Test Kits allow you to be more productive, but it also saves you money. While the average test can cost upwards of $35.00, Instant Drug Test Kits are about half the cost. Those who conduct a lot of drug tests and order in greater quantities, realize even greater savings through generous volume discounts. Furthermore, businesses can receive premium discounts up to 15% on their worker's compensation coverage with the implementation of a drug-testing program.

Q4 Are there any legal medications that can trigger positive results?

A4 - Yes. the most common problem is the pseudoephedrine in many over-the-counter sinus and cold medications, which can cause a positive result for methamphetamine. Some forms of the drugs we test for may be available legally under prescription as well. Click on the "Specifications" link above for a complete list of "Non-cross reading compounds"

Q5 A urine sample that tested positive with an instant drug screen test came back as negative after I sent it to the lab!

A5 - Keep in mind that our tests are drug SCREENS, and to be used for preliminary testing only. Our tests are designed to reduce the number of samples you have to send in to the lab for confirmation. There are several reasons a lab might disagree with a preliminary test result: the lab may be testing for a different amount, or a very specific form of the drug being tested for. The urine sample sent to the lab might not be the same one that was pre-tested - check your own internal procedures.

Q6 Are Morphine, Opiates, and Heroin the same kind of drug?

A6 - Yes, they are all tested using the Opiates test. These drugs are from the same family of drugs.

Q7 How long will drugs stay in my system?

Q8 Which drugs do you test for?

Q9 What is the shelf life of the on-site test devices?

A9 - Our test devices have a shelf life of 18 months from the date of manufacture. The expiration date of each Lot of devices is indicated on each individual foil pouch and can be used up until that date.

Q10 Do the results hold up in court?

A10 - Instant Drug Test Kits provide only a preliminary analytical test result. A more specific alternate chemical method must be used in order to obtain a confirmed analytical result- gas chromatography / mass spectrometry (GC/MS) is the preferred confirmatory method. Any result taken to court, must be confirmed. For details see, information on LC/MS, GC/MS Lab Confirmation.

Q11 How accurate are your drug tests?

A11 - Laboratory test results for drugs of abuse have indicated a greater than 97% accuracy when used according to the instructions. Many have 100% accuracy.

Q12 Is it possible to test positive for THC (marijuana) from exposure to second hand smoke?

A12 - Absolutely Not! Urine concentrations of THC above the cut-off sensitivity level of the test, or a positive result, is not possible by exposure to second hand smoke.

Q13 Will commonly used substances such as vitamins, penicillin, aspirin, caffeine and acetaminophen (Tylenol), affect the results?

A13 - No. Our tests are drug and drug metabolite specific. These commonly taken substances are chemically . and structurally different after being metabolized by the body from the drugs being tested for and therefore, under most circumstances, not interfere with or compromise test results.

Q14 Are there any legal medications that can trigger positive results?

A14 - Yes. The most common problem is the pseudoephedrine in many over-the-counter sinus and cold medications, which can cause a positive result for methamphetamine. A GC/MS confirmation as well as a MRO review is necessary to determine the source of the positive result. Some forms of the drugs we test for may be available legally under prescription as well.

Q15 What is the difference between Methamphetamine and Amphetamine?

A15 - Both amphetamine and methamphetamine are potent symphathominetic agents. Methamphetamine is the parent drug. It metabolizes into amphetamine in the body. Methamphetamine and/or amphetamine are excreted in the urine.

Q16 Which category covers Ecstasy?

A16 - MDMA.

Q17 Is on site testing as accurate as laboratory testing?

A17 - Yes, it is as accurate. The on site test kits utilize the same cut off levels as the laboratory. This is mandated by the DHHS. The accuracy along with the savings in time and money make on site testing a valuable tool.

Q18 What are some of the advantages to on site testing?

A18 - *Immediate results. *No turn around time for negatives. *Increase worker productivity less time lost to "testing process".
  *Reduced employment cost i.e. business, workers comp and medical insurance.
  *Shortened hiring cycle eliminates the 2 - 3 day delay in hiring prospective employees.
  *Increased testing specificity/flexibility allows users to target drug testing to meet specific demographic or geographic drug use trends.
  *Increased deterrence immediate results = immediate action.
  *Reduced drug testing costs lower "per test cost" through reduced direct and incidental costs.
  *Accountability donor must "deal" with results at time of test.

Q19 What is adulteration?

A19 - Adulteration is the tampering of a specimen in an attempt to pass a drug screen. There are several household products that are used as well as over the counter products that are either ingested or added to the specimen. Any specimen that has been adulterated should be considered a positive. For more information on urine adulteration, click on the link in the next question, Q20.

Q20 What Is Urine Adulteration?

Q21 How can I prevent adulteration?

A21 - The first step to prevention is proper specimen collection. The collection facility should be secured, with no running water and bluing in the toilet. The donor should wash their hands before the collection. Also always check the temperature of the specimen. We offer an adulteration test strip which checks for seven different type of adulteration. These Specimen Validity Tests allow you to test with confidence.

Q22 What drugs should I test for?

A22 - With the exception of DOT testing, which requires testing for THC, Cocaine, Opiates, Amphetamine, and PCP, you can decide what you would like to test for. We work with our clients to help them choose what they wish to detect. We offer a wide selection of drug test kits (ranging from single panel drug tests up to 10 panel and 12 panel drug tests). We usually suggest the drugs that are the most prevalent in the area as well as what the trends show. Because we work closely with several law enforcement agencies, we are aware of what drugs are out there. Most of our clients are testing for THC (marijuana), Cocaine, Amphetamine, and Opiates. Many will test for mAMP (methamphetamine) as it is also a popular drug in the working population.

Q23 Can we test ourselves in house?

A23 - With the proper training you may bring the, testing in house giving your organization a substantial savings. You would eliminate the collection costs as well as having to pay travel time for your employee to get to and from the collection facility.

Q24 What happens if I get a positive result for a drug?

A24 - All positive results must be sent for confirmation by a more specific method such as GC/MS. The drug screen is designed to screen out the negative results and does not measure the level of substances in the urine specimen. It also does not identify cross reactants to the drug test that may be in legal use. For more information on confirmation, see Laboratory Confirmation

Q25 What are some Drug Slang terms and what do they mean?

Q26 What are some of the signs / symptoms of drug abuse?

Q27 How can a person detox from drugs? -or- How can I pass a drug test?

A27 - These questions are often asked in terms of detoxing or detoxification and/or what is required to pass a drug test. For more information on these subjects, click on one of the links in the previous sentence.

Q28 Are the rapid drug tests as accurate as GC/MS?

A28 - Our drug tests are qualitative, which means it only determines the presence of drugs at detection limits comparable to SAMHSA cut-off concentration. GC/MS, which costs more, quantifies the concentration of drugs in the sample. Given the purposes of most drug testing (pre-employment, post-accident, random) is to detect the presence of drug use and not determine the amounts ingested, our rapid drug test satisfies the needs of almost all Drug Screening Programs.

Q29 What is the major difference between ALCO-SCREEN and ALCO-SCREEN 02

A29 - Both ALCO-SCREEN and ALCO-SCREEN 02 are saliva tests, which are intended to be used as a rapid method to detect the presence of alcohol in saliva.

The major difference is that ALCO-SCREEN provides a semi-quantitative approximation of blood alcohol concentration and it takes 2 minutes to be interpreted.

While, ALCO-SCREEN 02 can positively identify the presence of alcohol in saliva for blood alcohol concentrations greater than 0.02% and it takes 4 minutes to be interpreted.

Q30 How are the results of ALCO-SCREEN different from ALCO-SCREEN 02?

A30 - Both the ALCO-SCREEN and ALCO-SCREEN 02 are tests that consists of a plastic strip with a reactive pad applied at the tip.

For ALCO-SCREEN, the tip that has contact with solutions of alcohol will rapidly turn shades of green to blue depending on the amount of alcohol present.

For ALCO-SCREEN 02, the tip that has contact with saliva samples with alcohol in excess of 0.02% will produce a positive result which is indicated by the development of a distinct colored line across the pad.

Q31 What are normal urinalysis test results?

A31 - The color varies from colorless to dark yellow. Certain foods may stain it. The specific gravity ranges from 1.006 to 1.030. The higher the number, the more concentrated the urine. The pH level, or relative acidity or alkalinity ranges from 4.6 to 8.0. The average is 6.0, which is slightly acidic. Sugars, ketones, and proteins are not present for normal results. The blood has no hemoglobin (red blood cells) or white blood cells present. Bilirubin is also not present. For more information on a UA test or a urinalysis test, see UATest.com

Q32 What are abnormal urinalysis test results?

A32 - The colors are abnormal when it doesn’t fall in the normal range. The specific gravity is higher than 1.006 or lower than 1.030. This may indicate kidney disorders. Exceptions are those related to food or liquid intake. The pH level is overly acidic or alkaline urine. The sugar and ketones are usually tested together: High levels of glucose and ketones may indicate diabetes. Any protein present may indicate kidney disorders. Any blood present may indicate bleeding from the kidney, a urinary tract infection, or trauma from rigorous exercise. If any bilirubin is present, this indicates liver or bile duct disease. If nitrites and white blood cells are present, this indicates a urinary tract infection. For more information on a UA test or a urinalysis test, see UATest.com

Q33 What are the so-called Date Rape Drugs and how do they work?

A33 - Rohypnol and GHB. Rohypnol is a sleeping pill marketed by Roche Pharmaceuticals. The drug is a very potent tranquilizer similar to Valium, but much, much stronger. Rohypnol falls in the general drug class of Benzodiazepines. Rohypnol like all benzodiazepine drugs produces a sedative effect, amnesia, muscle relaxation and a slowing of psychomotor responses. The drug is often distributed on the street in its pharmaceutical packaging which makes it appear legitimate and legal. Rohypnol is reportedly sold for $2.00 to $4.00 per tablet. Originally, illicit use of Rohypnol was reported in Europe in the late 1970's while first reports of Rohypnol use in the United States began in the early 1990's. Rohypnol side effects begin approximately 20-30 minutes after taking the drug and peak within two hours. The half life of system induced Rohypnol, dependent on dosage is up to 8 hours. Symptoms of Rohypnol use include decreased blood pressure, black outs (memory loss), disorientation, blurred vision, aggressive behavior, loss of inhibitions, and extreme anxiety. Rohypnol is known as a rape drug because perpetrators reportedly slip it into a victim's drink causing them to blackout. Rohypnol takes away a victim's normal inhibitions, leaving the victim helpless and blocking the memory of a rape or assault. Rohypnol would test positive for Benzodiazepines in a typical lateral flow urine test device. It must be noted, however, that because the half life of Rohypnol is relatively short (< 8 hours), testing would have to take place within a few hours of ingesting of the drug.

GHB (Gamma-Hydroxybutyerate) Originally developed as an anesthetic, GHB is a naturally occurring 4-carbon molecule sold in powdered, liquid or capsule form. GHB usually is tasteless, but may be recognized at times by a salty taste. GHB was formerly sold by health-food stores and gyms as a sleep aid, anabolic agent, fat burner, enhancer of muscle definition and natural psychedelic. GHB was first synthesized in 1960 by a French researcher. It has been used in Europe as a general anesthetic, a treatment for insomnia and narcolepsy, an aid to childbirth and a treatment for alcoholism and alcohol withdrawal syndrome. In the last few years it has been gaining popularity as a "recreational" drug offering an alcohol-like, hangover free "high" with possible pro-sexual effects (dis-inhibition often occurs and inhibitions are extremely suppressed). GHB side effects are usually felt within 5 to 20 minutes after ingestion and they usually last no more than two to three hours. The effects of GHB are unpredictable and very dose-dependent. Sleep paralysis, agitation, delusions and hallucination have all been reported. Other effects include excessive salivation, decreased gag reflex and vomiting in 30 to 50 percent of users. Dizziness may occur for up to two weeks post ingestion. GHB can cause severe reactions when combined with alcohol, benzodiazepines, opiates, anticonvulsant and allergy remedies. Presently there are no lateral flow urine tests for GHB.

Q. I got a positive result for Methamphetamine and I was taking Pseudoephedrine cold medicine? Why and what do I do?

A. If you look on your instruction sheet, there is a list of cross reacting compounds for Methamphetamine. Pseudoephedrine can trigger a positive test result because Pseudoephedrine is often used in the manufacturing process for Methamphetamine. If you triggered a positive result for this, you need to have the specimen sent off to a lab to confirmation. The lab confirmation will be able to differentiate between Pseudoephedrine and actual Methamphetamine, thus clearing you of any negative repercussions.

Q. If I have opened the drug test pouch, can I wait to use the drug test later?

A. No, the tests should be used as soon as they are opened. Wait to open the pouch until you are ready to perform the test. The tests are moisture sensitive and exposure to air, humidity and heat can cause the test to corrupt and not be usable. The pouch insures that the tests stay dry.

Q. How long can I store a urine specimen before testing?

A. You can store the specimen in a refrigerator at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius for up to 48 hours, or you can freeze it at 0 degrees Celsius, before testing. However, you must allow the specimen to get back to room temperature before you test it. It is strongly recommended that you test the sample as soon as possible after it has been collected.

Q. Can I put less than three drops of urine in a cassette/device test?

A. No. The directions are very specific that you must put 3 drops of urine into the well of the cassette. If you put any less, then you do not allow enough urine to be deposited for testing, thus the test will not run.

Q. What if I or my child has a prescription?

A. You need to be aware that some prescriptions can trigger a positive on a test. Medications such as Adderol and Zoloft, which are common prescriptions, will trigger an amphetamine test. Anti-anxiety medications such as Prozac and Xanax are benzodiazepines and will trigger a benzodiazepine test. If you are tested, and have a prescription and test positive, you must have the test sent off to a lab for confirmation.

Q: What are the drug test cut-off levels of the rapid drug test?
A: The screening cutoff concentrations of our tests are consistent with those of SAMHSA. Those cutoff levels are as follows:
Amphetamines………………………………………1000 ng/ml
Barbiturates………………………………………………300 ng/ml
Benzodiazepines……………………………………300 ng/ml
Cannabis……………………………………………………50 ng/ml
Cocaine……………………………………………………300 ng/ml
Methadone………………………………………………300 ng/ml
Methamphetamines……………………………1000 ng/ml
Opiates…………………………………………………2000 ng/ml
PCP……………………………………………………………25 ng/ml
Tricyclic Antidepressants……………………1000 ng/ml

Q: If a drug test is positive, can you determine how long ago the drug was taken and over what period of time?
A: No. Drug of abuse testing by blood, urine, or saliva can only detect whether or not a specific drug or drug metabolite is present at the time the test is performed. While there are very broad estimates (see drug detection chart) as to how long a particular drug may have been in the system, no fluid based drug test, regardless of method, is intended to include a time variable. Many factors unique to the individual being tested determine the actual half-life of the particular drug including such variables as age, weight, sex, metabolic rate, overall health, amount of drug consumed over what period of time, etc. Therefore, no conclusions can be drawn as to when a particular drug was taken or how much was consumed with these types of drug of abuse tests. A forensic hair core analysis for drugs can be utilized to determine historical drug use up to 90 days.

Q: I am taking a prescription medication. Will this particular medication test positive on a drug test?
A: There are literally hundreds of brand name and generic drugs being prescribed today. If you have a question on a specific prescribed medication, you will need to know the general classification of that medication to determine if it will test positive on any of the specific drug test panels, i.e.: opiates, amphetamine, methamphetamine, benzodiazepines, barbiturates etc. For general classifications on prescription drugs you can either ask your pharmacist, give us a call at 801-596-2709, or send us an email: sales@UATests.com. Give us the name of the prescription drug and we’ll help you determine its general classification and pharmacology.

Q: What are the effects of sample dilution or adulteration and how are these tested for?
A: The most common method of sample manipulation to avoid a positive drug screen is dilution. Other forms of sample adulteration are the in vitro addition of adulterants or additives into the specimen sample to destroy the chemical reaction properties of lateral flow, point of use, drug tests. Common practice is to pre-test the sample for dilution or adulteration using a sample validity test.

Q: I have unexpected results or test failure. What is the likelihood that the test device is defective?
A. 98% of the time, unexpected test results or failure to obtain test results is the result of user error. Failure to follow instructions, inadequate sampling, device contamination, failure to use a timer or other user related factor. In-vitro, lateral flow chromo-graphic tests while simple to use still require certain basic testing disciplines. Unfortunately persons unfamiliar with these disciplines often ignore the test instructions or cautions expecting the test device to be accurate regardless of how it is used. Additionally, the stringent quality control checks and required random sampling methods mandated by the governmental regulatory authorities during the production process make the likelihood of receiving a defective test device extremely remote.

Q Will commonly ingested substances such as vitamins, penicillin, aspirin, caffeine and acetaminophen (Tylenol), affect the results?
A: No. The tests are drug and drug metabolite specific. Because these commonly ingested substances are chemically and structurally different after metabolized by the body from the drugs being tested for, they will under most circumstances not interfere with or compromise test results.

Q: My teenager has a positive test for opiates but claims eating poppy seed bagels or other food products containing poppy seeds. Can this happen?
A: If the sensitivity cutoff level of the test is the revised standard of 2000 ng/ml OPI, this is not possible. Sensitivity standards were raised in the year 2000 from 300 ng/ml to 2000 ng/ml OPI to eliminate the possibility of false positive results that were possible from consumption of large quantities of poppy seeds or poppy seed paste at the lower sensitivity level.

Q. What different types of Drug Tests are there?

A. The different types of tests are: Urine Drug Test, Saliva Drug Test, Hair Drug Test and Sweat Drug Test.

Q. Am I invading my child/teen’s privacy by drug testing them?

A. Absolutely not. Children are using drugs at earlier and earlier ages as time goes on. Drug testing your child or teen has been a proven preventative method, if not the best one, for keeping your child or teen drug free. You have to think about their ultimate well being and disregard people who say that drug testing is an invasion of your privacy, because it is not! In Board of Education of Independent School District No. 92 of Pottawatomie County, et al, Petitioners v. Lindsay Earls et al, the United States Court of Appeals for the tenth circuit ruled that drug testing students for extracurricular activities is in fact constitutional. The laws of our land uphold drug testing, and opponents are likely drug users themselves who do not want to be tested for obvious reasons. If you suspect that your child or teen is using drugs, if you care about them, you will test them. To help with this, you can offer your child a reward for a negative test; this will be an added incentive to them to stay of drugs. Think of this not as a legality issue, but an issue of being a good parent.

Hair Drug Test FAQ

(This is a partial listing, for more information about hair drug testing, see Detailed Hair Drug Test FAQ)

Q: What drugs does a Hair Drug Test screen for?
A: A typical Hair Drug Test will screen for five different drug classes: Cocaine (cocaine & benzoylecgonine), Marijuana (THC-COOH), Opiates (Codeine, Morphine & 6-monacteyl morphine), Amphetamines (Meth/amphetamines & Ecstasy) and Phencyclidine (PCP, angel dust).

Q: How many hairs are required for laboratory testing?
A: Approximately 40-50 strands cut from the scalp line at the crown (or when bundled, about the diameter of a shoelace tip).

Q: How does the test work?
A: There are 2 options: one have professional collect the hair sample or two, collect the hair sample yourself. If you choose option two, follow these simple instructions: Using the detailed instructions as a guide, collect a hair sample of approximately the diameter of a shoelace tip. Once you have collected the hair sample, record the Specimen ID number found on the CCF (chain and custody form). Keep this number, for this is how you will be able to get your results (based on the CCF Specimen ID). Each Hair Test collection kit come with complete instructions. Mail the hair sample to the CLIA certified laboratory, Omega Laboratories, Inc, using the pre-addressed, prepaid envelope provided. The laboratory will analyze the hair sample for evidence of drug use. You will receive you test results by the method you chose when you purchased your test. If you have not received your results within 3 business days of the Lab's receipt of the hair sample, contact us by phone at 801-596-2709.

Q: How does our Hair Drug Test compare to urinalysis or saliva tests on the market?
A: The primary differences are historical use (approximately 90 days dependent on hair length) and the inability to tamper or contaminate the test and therefore directly change the test results. Cocaine, Methamphetamine, Opiates and Phencyclidine are rapidly excreted and usually undetectable in urine 72 hours after use, and in saliva 48 hours after use. The detection period for hair is limited only by the length of the hair sample and is approximately 90 days.

Q: How effective is Hair Testing in detecting drug users?
A: In side-by-side comparison studies with urinalysis, hair drug testing has uncovered significantly more drug use. In two independent studies, hair drug testing uncovered 5 to 10 times as many drug users as urinalysis for evidence of drug use.

Buy Hair Drug Test

Q: What is the difference between heroin and morphine?
A: Heroin, morphine and codeine are opiates derived from the resin of the opium poppy. Heroin is quickly metabolized to morphine. The body also changes codeine (used in some cold medicines) to morphine. Thus, the presence of morphine in the urine indicates heroin, morphine and/or codeine use.

For more information on the drug heroin or opioids, see these resources: Heroin Drug Information or Opiate Drug Information.

Q. What is the difference between morphine, heroin and codeine?
A: Chemically, nothing. All three of these drugs are derived from opium or the opium chemical structure and are in the Opiate class of drugs. The difference is primarily in the manner in which opium is refined or synthetically manufactured and the form and method of delivery.

Q: What does THC mean?
A: THC is an abbreviation for 11-nor-delta9 Tetrahydrocannibinol-9-carboxylic acid, the primary metabolite of Marijuana. Marijuana is a hallucinogenic agent derived from the leaves, flowers or seeds of the hemp plant. In general, the production and "curing" of the marijuana plant into its useable form closely resembles that of tobacco. Marijuana is almost always smoked and inhaled into the lungs where it is quickly metabolized (or changed) by the body into 11-nor-delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol-9-carboxylic acid which is excreted in the urine.

For detailed information on Marijuana, its uses, affects, etc. see, Marijuana Drug information.

Q: Why is there a separate test for Oxycodone if Oxycodone is an Opiate?
A: Oxycodone (Percodan, Percocet, Roxicodone, Oxycontin) are synthetically manufactured opiates meaning they are not directly refined from the opium poppy resin source. While the chemical chains are similar, detection of synthetic opiate drugs requires a lower sensitivity detection level than that established for non synthetic opiates.

See our Oxycodone Drug Test page for more information.

Q: What is the difference between Methamphetamine and Amphetamine?
A: Both amphetamine and methamphetamine are potent symphathominetic agents. Methamphetamine is the parent drug. It metabolizes (or changes) into amphetamine in the body. Methamphetamine and/or amphetamine are excreted in the urine. A positive result for Amphetamine can also be interpreted as a positive test for methamphetamine.

Q: What is Ecstasy?
A. Ecstasy (MDMA) has recently become a popular recreational drug among teenagers and young adults. Ecstasy is refined processed form of amphetamine with a chemical structure closely resembling methamphetamine. Any test with a target screen for methamphetamine should detect Ecstasy although a MDMA specific screen in preferred.

Q: What does PCP mean?
A: PCP is an abbreviation of phencyclidine which is an arylcyclohexylamine. One street name is "angel dust".

Q: What drugs could interfere and cause a positive morphine (opiates) test?
A: Codeine and Meperidine are structurally related to morphine therefore causing positive results. Codeine is a commonly prescribed pain medication and is also the active ingredient in some prescription cough medicines. These forms of codeine can also be addictive and abused.

Drug Test Results Questions

Q: What should I do if there is no control line appearing when I perform the test?
A: If there is no line on the Control line, then the test is invalid. Repeat the test, carefully following the written procedure. The most common cause for a control line not developing or appearing is failure to add sufficient urine sample to complete full migration through the test panels. 98% of reported incidents regarding unexpected results, lack of a control line or test integrity are the result of user error or test contamination at the point of testing.

Q: What will the control region look like if the test is working?
A: The control line should always appear regardless of the presence of drugs or metabolites. If the control line does not appear then all results are invalid.

Q: How does the result window appear if the results are negative?
A: Two colored bands will appear: a control band and a test band on the strip next to the target drug.

Q How does the result window appear if the results are positive?
A: Only one band, the control band will appear and no band will develop when the target drug is present.

Q: What do I do if results show a very faint line?
A: Any very faint line on the test region could indicate that the drug in the sample could be near the cut-off level for the test. However, any line in the test area, no matter how faint, should be interpreted as a negative test. Perform a second test or send the specimen to a laboratory to obtain quantitative results.

Q. If the test line is faint; does it mean that the person has used some of that drug?

A. No. If there is a line on the test line, it means that it is negative, no exceptions. Sometimes the line is faint because of the way the test is manufactured, but a line, no matter how faint, means a negative.

Q. What does the result window for a negative result look like?

A. A negative result will have two lines. The first line should be at the top and is referred to as the control line. The second line is below the control line and is referred to as the test line. See the packing insert and instructions for more info.

Q. What does the result window for a positive result look like?

A. A positive result will have one line. The line will be at the top of the test and is referred to as the control line. There will be no line on the test line. See the packing insert and instructions for more info.

If laboratory confirmation is desired for uncertain or positive results see our GC MS Lab Confirmation information.

Pregnancy and Ovulation Test Questions:

Q: How soon can I test?

A: It has been stated that tests of this sensitivity can detect a pregnancy as soon as 7 days past ovulation. But keep in mind that implantation must first take place before hCG is released. Implantation takes place between 6-12 days past ovulation with 7-9 days being the average. It is recommended to wait until at least 9-12 days past ovulation and even then there is a chance that you are testing too early and could still get a false negative. If you continue to get a negative result but feel that you could be pregnant, please consult your doctor.

Q: Must I use first morning urine for the pregnancy test?

A: If you are testing early (prior to missing your period) it is definitely recommended that you use first morning urine. First morning urine contains the highest level of hCG because it is the most concentrated. If you do test later in the day it is a good idea to hold your urine for at least 3-4 hours prior to testing. Drinking too many fluids prior to testing can dilute your urine and is not suggested.

Q: What does it mean if the test line is very light?

A: You will always see a control line but if the test line shows up very faint pink or purple within the 10-minute cutoff time, you should assume you are pregnant. You should contact your doctor for further testing right away. You can also re-test in two days and you will probably see a darker line.

Q: Should I use first morning urine when using your ovulation test?

A: NO! The best time to test is around 2 p.m. but anytime between 10 a.m and 8 p.m. is fine, first morning urine is not recommended. LH is synthesized in your body in the early morning and may not show up as well until later in the day.

Q: What is hCG?

A: hCG is human chorionic gonadotropin. It is a hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy. Our home pregnancy tests are designed to detect hCG in urine. Having hCG present in your urine is indicative that you are pregnant, and the test will return positive.

Q: What is the accuracy and sensitivity of your pregnancy and ovulation test kits?

A: Our tests are over 99% accurate when used properly and as directed.

Q: What is the shelf life for these products?

A: Our tests have a shelf life of up to 24 months from the date of manufacture. The expiration date of each Lot of devices is indicated on each individual foil pouch and can be used up until that date.

Miscellaneous Drug Test Questions:

Q: What are the cutoff levels for a DOT drug test?

A: The DOT has separate cutoff levels, one for the initial test and then, if positive, the confirmatory test. See below for DOT cutoff levels:

Initial test analyte	Initial test cutoff concentration	Confirmatory test analyte	Confirmatory test cutoff concentration
Marijuana metabolites	50 ng/mL	THCA	15 ng/mL
Cocaine metabolites	150 ng/mL	Benzoylecgonine	100 ng/mL
Opiate metabolites: · Codeine/Morphine · 6-Acetylmorphine · Phencyclidine	2000 ng/mL 10 ng/mL 25 ng/mL	Codeine Morphine 6-Acetylmorphine Phencyclidine	2000 ng/mL 2000 ng/mL 10 ng/mL 25 ng/mL
Amphetamines: · AMP/MAMP · MDMA	500 ng/mL 500 ng/mL	Amphetamine Methamphetamine MDMA MDA MDEA	250 ng/mL 250 ng/mL 250 ng/mL 250 ng/mL 250 ng/mL

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