Wednesday, April 27, 2011

What are the Different Types of Tests Available for Drug Addiction

Addiction is a physical and psychological dependance on psycho active substances. Drug addiction is a state of periodic or chronic intoxication produced by the repeated consumption of a drug. There are five different types of tests available for drug addiction and these tests are used to check the presence of drugs like marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, phencyclidine in the body of drug abusers. Other expansive tests can also detect barbiturates, hydrocodone, Quaaludes, benzodiazepines, methadone, and MDMA.

Urine Test:
This is the most common test used by employers, law enforcement, and at homes. It is less expensive and less invasive than other methods of testing. Urine tests are primarily used to detect drug use within a weeks time, though some have been able to detect use up to 30 days later.

Blood Test:
In this type of the tests blood samples of the addicted persons are collected and these samples are tested for the presence of drugs. Blood tests are the most expensive and invasive method of testing, but they are also the most accurate tests.

Saliva Test:
Saliva tests are also inexpensive and are useful for detecting recent drug use like, within the past few hours or days. They are easy to administer and these tests are becoming more common.

Hair Test:
These tests are used to detect substance use over a longer period of time, usually it may range up to 2-4 months. A sample of the hair which is to be tested must have a size about an inch and a half. These tests costs about $100 to $150 and these tests often check for a wide range of substances, and can provide information about the frequency and degree of drug use.

Sweat Test:
These are relatively uncommon tests, as they require long period of time to get results. Sweat tests are not accurate because surface of the skin is contaminated and these contaminants have a great effect on the readings of the tests.

These different types of tests, using different samples are conducted to know the drug presence. These tests can be conducted in laboratories or by drug testing kits.




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