Knowledge about drug tests, detectability & substances

Welcome to the Toxcontrol Diagnostik knowledge hub. Here you will find an independent, medically sound and easy-to-understand overview of all key topics related to drug testing, substances, detectability, Swiss law and the responsible handling of consumption.

Knowledge overview

Fundamentals & drug testing

Fundamentals & drug testing

How do drug tests work, when is which test appropriate and how reliable are the results? This section covers:

  • Screening vs confirmatory analysis (LC-MS/MS)
  • Urine, saliva, hair and blood testing
  • Drug testing in the workplace & road traffic
  • Application, test quality and cut-off values

Go to “Fundamentals & drug testing”

Substances & effects

Substances & effects

This section provides a structured and neutral overview of:

  • THC, cocaine, amphetamines, MDMA
  • Heroin, opioids, ketamine
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Synthetic stimulants (e.g. MDPV)

Mechanisms of action, risks, addiction potential, typical consumption patterns and detectability – clearly explained in medical terms.

Go to “Substances & effects”

Detectability

Detectability

How long do substances remain detectable in the body – and why do values vary so widely? You will learn about:

  • Differences between urine, saliva, blood and hair
  • Individual factors (metabolism, frequency of use)
  • The role of cut-off values
  • THC as a special case (fat tissue & long-term detection)

Go to “Detectability”

Prevention & behaviour

Prevention & behaviour

How should conversations be approached when there is suspicion? When is support helpful? How can prevention succeed without pressure? Key topics include:

  • Early detection & warning signs
  • Communication without blame
  • Youth & school prevention
  • Workplace prevention
  • Counselling services in Switzerland

Go to “Prevention & behaviour”

Legal aspects & expert knowledge

Legal aspects & expert knowledge

In Switzerland, a distinction is made between:

  • Screening (indicative) and laboratory analysis (legally binding)
  • Active impairment vs mere evidence of consumption

You will also find information on:

  • THC limits in road traffic (1.5 µg/L)
  • Employer requirements
  • Data protection & consent
  • Rights and obligations in drug testing

Go to “Legal aspects & expert knowledge”

Glossary / drug lexicon

Glossary / drug lexicon (A–Z)

Alphabetical reference covering active substances, consumption terms, scene terminology and pharmacological basics.

Go to the lexicon

Who is this section intended for?

  • Parents and caregivers
  • Schools and educational institutions
  • Employers, HR and safety functions
  • Counselling services and medical professionals
  • Individuals and relatives seeking orientation

Popular topics

This knowledge section is continuously expanded and regularly updated to provide medically neutral, quality-checked and legally sound information.