What Type of Drug Test Does the Military Use?
The United States military has a strict drug policy, and any servicemember found to be using illegal drugs can face severe consequences, including administrative action, court-martial, and even discharge from the military. To ensure compliance with this policy, the military uses a variety of drug testing methods to detect the presence of drugs in the body. In this article, we will explore the types of drug tests used by the military.
What is the purpose of drug testing in the military?
Drug testing in the military serves several purposes:
- To prevent drug use among servicemembers, which can impact performance, safety, and unit cohesion
- To identify and remove from duty any servicemembers who may be under the influence of drugs or substances
- To protect the health and well-being of servicemembers, as drug use can have serious physical and mental health consequences
- To uphold the military’s commitment to integrity, discipline, and excellence
What type of drug test does the military use?
The military uses a variety of drug tests to detect the presence of drugs in the body. The primary methods used are:
- Urine testing: This is the most common method of drug testing in the military. Urine tests detect the presence of drugs and their metabolites (breakdown products) in the urine.
- Blood testing: Blood tests are used to detect the presence of drugs in the bloodstream. This type of testing is typically used in cases where a servicemember is suspected of being under the influence of drugs or substances.
- Hair testing: Hair testing is used to detect the presence of drugs in hair follicles. This type of testing is used to detect long-term drug use and can be useful in cases where a servicemember has attempted to dilute their urine sample.
- Oral fluid testing: Oral fluid testing involves collecting a sample of saliva from a servicemember’s mouth. This type of testing is used to detect the presence of drugs in the oral fluid, which can indicate recent drug use.
How do drug tests work?
Drug tests work by detecting the presence of drug metabolites or the parent drug itself in the body. The most common methods used are:
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA): This method uses antibodies to bind to the drug or drug metabolite, causing a color change that indicates the presence of the drug.
- Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS): This method uses a combination of gas chromatography and mass spectrometry to separate and identify the drug or drug metabolite.
- Immunoassay: This method uses antibodies to detect the presence of the drug or drug metabolite.
What substances are tested for in the military?
The military tests for a wide range of substances, including:
- Illegal drugs: These include drugs such as cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and methamphetamine.
- Prescription drugs: The military tests for the presence of prescription drugs, such as opioids and benzodiazepines, in a servicemember’s system.
- Performance-enhancing substances: The military tests for the presence of performance-enhancing substances, such as steroids and human growth hormone.
What is the typical drug testing protocol in the military?
The typical drug testing protocol in the military involves:
- Random testing: Random drug testing is conducted throughout the year to ensure compliance with the military’s drug policy.
- Suspicion-based testing: Drug testing is conducted on servicemembers who are suspected of using drugs or substances.
- Accident or incident testing: Drug testing is conducted on servicemembers who are involved in accidents or incidents that may be related to drug use.
- Post-incident testing: Drug testing is conducted on servicemembers who are involved in accidents or incidents, regardless of whether or not they are suspected of drug use.
Consequences of failing a drug test in the military
Failing a drug test in the military can have severe consequences, including:
- Administrative action: Servicemembers who fail a drug test may face administrative action, such as a court-martial or non-judicial punishment.
- Court-martial: Servicemembers who fail a drug test and are found guilty of drug use may face a court-martial, which can result in imprisonment, discharge, or other penalties.
- Discharge: Servicemembers who fail a drug test may be discharged from the military.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the military uses a variety of drug tests to detect the presence of drugs and substances in the body. The primary methods used are urine testing, blood testing, hair testing, and oral fluid testing. The military tests for a wide range of substances, including illegal drugs, prescription drugs, and performance-enhancing substances. Servicemembers who fail a drug test can face severe consequences, including administrative action, court-martial, and discharge from the military.
