So you have passed the interview for your new job and the next step to getting hired is a drug screen.  You’re so mad you could just spit. Well, guess what? That is exactly what the company that wants to hire you is going to make you do.  You have to submit to a saliva test.  You know that you just smoked a little marijuana with your friends, but what you don’t know is how long the marijuana metabolites can be detected in your saliva. Saliva testing for marijuana is just as accurate as urine testing but it doesn’t cover as long a period of time because your body is constantly producing saliva to keep your mouth and digestive system lubricated.  On average for a one time or light usage of marijuana, the THC metabolites can be detected in the saliva any where from 24 hours to a few days.  If you are a heavier smoker, it can be detected up to or over one week. Saliva testing for THC metabolites is just as effective as conducting a urinalysis for THC but it only detects marijuana use as far back in time as a few days where a urinalysis can cover back  as long as 3 months depending on your body weight and or your history of smoking.

Many companies have turned to on-site saliva testing because of the convenience and quickness with which it can be conducted.  Also, these tests are routinely used for testing for THC and other substances immediately after an industrial accident or to test employees after a return-to-work absence or if the employer has reasonable suspicion of drug use by an employee.

The saliva test has become very popular for immediate results because it is simple to perform and there is a decrease in the chance of the sample being tampered with because the sample is taken in the presence of the tester as opposed to a urinalysis where the subject can go behind closed doors and adulterate the sample.  With a saliva test the sample is taken with a swab that is placed between the cheek and gums for a few minutes until it is saturated and then standard marijuana testing procedures are implemented.

If you think that not enough time has passed between the time you last smoked and the time you are required to give your saliva sample then you should look into using a detox mouthwash that will kill all of the THC metabolites or other metabolites in your saliva for up to one half hour after using it.  This will ensure that you pass your test and be able to keep your job.

(To Be Continued)