A DOA screen provides simple positive or negative results; it is qualitative, not quantitative testing. DOA testing usually starts with a screen and moves toward confirmation of specific drugs, if the screen is positive.
Drug screening:
- Is fast and usually performed using immunoassays
- Is qualitative, not quantitative
- Is generally performed on urine
- Can be done at the point-of-care (POC)
- Often requires confirmatory testing for positive samples
A variety of devices are currently available from several manufacturers for rapid urine DOA screening. Several examples are shown in the image.
Most laboratories will screen for the following DOA:
- Cocaine
- THC (Marijuana)
- Barbiturates
- Benzodiazepines
- Amphetamine and methamphetamine
- Opiates
- Oxycodone/oxymorphone
- Methadone
Some laboratories may also screen for tricyclic antidepressants, PCP, and propoxyphene.
