Alternative specimens for workplace drug testing

Recent advances in analytical techniques have enabled the detection of drugs and drug metabolites in alternative biological specimens for the purposes of workplace testing. A wide variety of specimens are available, each providing valuable information concerning prior or current drug use. The present focus is on oral fluid (saliva), hair, and sweat. An extensive evaluation by the Division of Workplace Programs of the Department of Health and Human Services is underway to determine the utility of these specimens in federally regulated programs. In future years, the testing of alternative specimens will expand our ability to understand the patterns of drug use and will become routine in all areas of forensic toxicology.