MAG TEST
Drug Test Kit
A drug test kit is a rapid screening tool that detects drug metabolites in urine, saliva, blood, or hair. Most use immunoassay test strips with results in 3 to 10 minutes, screening substances like meth or amphetamine, THC, cocaine, opiates, ketamine, and benzodiazepines.
A drug test kit is a preliminary screening tool that detects drug metabolites in urine, saliva, blood, or hair using immunoassay test strips, with results in under 10 minutes.
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FAQ
How many types of test kits are there, and how are they different?
Mainly, there are two types:
- The most widely used and cost-effective; can detect multiple substances at once.
- Convenient and harder to adulterate, but has a shorter detection window than urine.
How long can substances be detected after use?
- Methamphetamine / amphetamine: 1–3 days (heavy use may be longer)
- Cannabis (THC): 1–3 days (chronic/heavy use may be 7–30 days)
- Heroin / morphine / codeine: 1–3 days
- Cocaine: 1–3 days
What is a cut-off value?
A cut-off is the minimum concentration that counts as a positive result (e.g., THC 50 ng/mL, AMP/MAMP 500 ng/mL). It helps reduce false results and matches common workplace standards.
Does a faint line count as “positive” or “negative”?
- Most test kits have a Control line (C) and a Test line (T).
- If both C and T lines appear (whether faint or dark) = Negative.
- If only the C line appears (no T line) = Positive.
- If no C line appears = Invalid result / test not usable — retest required.
How accurate is it?
Standard-compliant kits (e.g., CE / FDA 510(k) / ISO 13485) typically provide >95% sensitivity and specificity when used correctly. However, they are not confirmatory tests—a positive result should be verified by a laboratory method (GC-MS / LC-MS/MS).
What can cause inaccurate results?
Reading the result at the wrong time, insufficient sample volume, urine adulteration/dilution, certain medications or supplements (cross-reactivity), improper storage temperature, and expired tests.
How should it be stored, and what is its shelf life?
Store at 2–30°C, away from moisture and sunlight, and do not freeze. Shelf life is as stated on the pouch (typically 18–24 months). Once opened, use immediately.
What should you do if the result is “positive”?
Collect a new sample under chain-of-custody, send it for confirmatory testing via GC-MS/LC-MS/MS, inform the individual of their right to appeal, and follow the relevant workplace policy and labor laws.
