FAQ Drug Testing, Detectability & Prevention

Frequently Asked Questions about Drug Testing, Detectability & Prevention

In this overview, you will find the most frequently asked questions about drug tests, detection times, prevention and legal aspects in Switzerland. All answers are neutral, technically correct and comprehensibly summarized – suitable for parents, private individuals, schools, employers and institutions.

Important:
Drug tests provide indications of use, but they do not replace a medical or psychological diagnosis. In case of uncertainties or abnormalities, a specialist office or medical advice should always be consulted.

Here you will find answers to the following areas:

  • Detectability of various substances
  • Acute impairment vs. past consumption
  • Test methods (urine, saliva, hair, laboratory)
  • What to do if the result is positive
  • Purchase & Use of Rapid Drug Tests
  • Legal basis in labour and road transport
  • Support and advice for relatives and young people

1. Drug testing basics

How reliable are rapid drug tests?

Rapid drug tests are considered a screening method and usually >have 99% analytical accuracy .
However, confirmatory analyses (LC-MS/MS) remain the gold standard.

→ Screening = Notice
→ laboratory = legally binding

What is the difference between screening and confirmatory analysis?

Screening (urine/saliva) Confirmatory analysis (laboratory)
shows the presence of a substance exact quantity, exclusive identification
fast, cost-effective Court-proof, no cross-reaction risk
no legal basis legally binding

What does cut-off mean?

The cut-off is the detection limit above which a test reacts positively.
→ the deeper, the more sensitive and longer detectable.

2. Traceability

How long do drugs remain detectable in the body?

The detection time depends on:

  • Frequency of consumption
  • Metabolism
  • Test Type
  • Cut-Off

Typical guideline values:

  • Urine: 1–4 days (THC significantly longer)
  • Saliva: Hours to 1–2 days
  • Hair: up to 90 days
  • Blood: a few hours

→ Detailed overview: Detectability per substance

Why is THC detectable for so long?

THC is lipophilic (fat-soluble) and is stored in adipose tissue.
It is slowly released again → weeks to sometimes months.

Application & Practice

How do I know if a person is currently disabled?

Acute signs:

  • constricted or dilated pupils
  • Slowed response
  • Blurred speech
  • Tremor, restlessness, heavy sweating

→ Saliva or blood is most relevant for acute assessment.

Can drug tests be manipulated?

Attempts:

  • „Drink a lot“
  • Additives in the urine
  • Synthetic urine

Result:
→ screening conspicuously follows → laboratory analysis
→ manipulation attempts are recognizable (creatinine, temperature, pH, density).

How do I use urine tests correctly?

  • first morning urine sample preferred
  • 10-15 °C to 30 °C
  • evaluate immediately, do not read

→ Detailed procedure: Correct use of urine test

Adolescents & Prevention

How do I know if my child is using drugs?

Notes:

  • Withdrawal, slump in performance
  • changed circle of friends
  • unusual tiredness/restlessness
  • Conspicuous objects (papers, tubes, foils)

Important: no tone of reproach → conversation & support.

→ Prevention & Behaviour

Can I test my child?

In the case of minors:

  • Yes, as part of the parental duty of care
  • Goal: Protection, not punishment

5. Legal matters in Switzerland

Which tests are relevant in road traffic?

Only blood values are decisive.

  • THC limit: 1.5 μg/L (active)
  • Saliva/urine is only for screening

→ details: Legal & expertise

Are employers allowed to require drug tests?

Yes, but only if:

  • Security-related activity
  • reasonable suspicion
  • written regulation

No right for:

  • routine tests without cause
  • pure curiosity

6. Product & Shipping Questions

Are drug tests like in pharmacies?

Yes.
→ Identical CE-certified in vitro diagnostic medical devices.

What substances can be detected?

Depending on the panel:

  • THC, cocaine, amphetamines, methamphetamine, MDMA,
  • Opiates, benzodiazepines, methadone/EDDP, ketamine, PCP, etc.

→ complete overview in the shop

How discreet is the shipping?

  • neutral packaging
  • No Toxcontrol sender information

7. Drug substances

How pure is the cocaine/heroin that was consumed?

Street goods regularly contain cutting agents. Risks:

  • Local tissue damage
  • toxic additives
  • Infection risks

→ more: Cutting agents & purity

8. Emergency/Intoxication

What to do if you suspect an overdose?

Emergency signs:

  • Respiratory depression
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Vomiting
  • bluish lips
  • Seizures

→ Contact 144 immediately
→ no waiting, no discussion