The test detects the presence of various classes of abused drugs. The initial analysis is a screening test for broad groups of drugs (e.g. opiates – heroin, morphine, codeine etc) is detected; positive results are then followed up by a more specific test which identifies the individual drug taken (e.g. morphine). A drugs of abuse ‘screen’ usually comprises the more commonly abused drug groups, which are the opiates,…The test detects the presence of various classes of abused drugs. The initial analysis is a screening test for broad groups of drugs (e.g. opiates – heroin, morphine, codeine etc) is detected; positive results are then followed up by a more specific test which identifies the individual drug taken (e.g. morphine). A drugs of abuse ‘screen’ usually comprises the more commonly abused drug groups, which are the opiates, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, cannabinoids, amphetamines (including Ecstasy) and cocaine. Drugs used in the treatment of opiate addiction (methadone and buprenorphine) and ‘legal highs’ are also often detected. How is the sample collected for testing?A random urine sample is usually collected for the detection of drugs of abuse although they can be detected in blood, sweat and saliva and hair samples can be used on rare occasions. If the outcome of the test may have legal implications you may be asked to provide a sample under supervised conditions and certify that it’s your sample. Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample?Certain prescription and over-the-counter drugs may give a positive screening result. Before testing, you should declare any medications that you have taken recently and/or for which you have prescriptions so that your results can be interpreted correctly. See MoreSee Less
