What Drugs Does the Military Test for in 2024?
The US military has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to drug use among its service members. As such, the military conducts routine drug testing to ensure that individuals entering and serving in the military are drug-free. The types of drugs the military tests for have changed over the years, and there have been some updates made for 2024.
What Drugs Does the Military Test for in 2024?
As of 2024, the military tests for the following drugs:
- Marijuana (THC): The military will continue to test for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound found in marijuana. However, note that some states have legalized marijuana for recreational or medicinal use, and the legal landscape is constantly evolving.
Contents
**List of Drugs Tested for by the Military in 2024**
| Drug | Street Name | Chemical Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marijuana (THC) | Weed, Bud, Mary Jane | Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) | Psychoactive substance in cannabis |
| Cocaine | Coke, Cocaine, Snow | Cocaine hydrochloride (C17H21NO4) | Stimulant |
| Heroin | Smack, H, Horse | Diacetylmorphine (C21H23NO5) | Opiate |
| Amphetamines | Speed, Uppers, Black Beauties | Phenyl-2-propanone (C7H9O) | Stimulant |
| Methamphetamine | Meth, Crystal, Ice | N-methyl-1-phenylpropan-2-amine (C11H15N) | Stimulant |
| Opiates | Morphine, Codeine, Hydrocodone | Various | Prescription painkillers and illegally diverted medications |
| Codeine | Cody, Kapoor, Syrup | (-)-Methylmorphine (C18H21NO3) | Opium-derived medication |
| Fentanyl | China Girl, Friend, Jack | N-phenyl-1-(2-phenylethyl)-4-piperidinone (C22H20FNO2) | Synthetic opioid |
| 6-MAM | Monoacetylmorphine (C19H20O4) | Immediate metabolite of heroin, detected in urine | |
| Ketamine | Special K, Vitamin K | (-)-(2-Chlorphenyl)-2-methamino-cyclohexanone (C13H16ClNO) | Dissociative anesthetic |
| Bath Salts | Ivory, Vanilla Sky, Bliss | Synthetic cathinones and analogs | Stimulants and hallucinogens |
Note: The list of drugs tested for may vary depending on the service branch and the specific circumstance of the test.
**How Drug Testing Works in the Military**
The military uses a Random Drug Testing (RDT) Program to select service members for urine testing. The program involves the following steps:
- Selection: Service members are randomly selected for drug testing based on a predefined algorithm.
- Test Preparation: Service members who are selected for testing receive a notification and are informed of the testing procedures and protocols.
- Sampling: A urine sample is collected from the service member using a sterile container and under the supervision of a medical officer or a trained collections specialist.
- Initial Screening: The urine sample is screened for the presence of drugs using an enzymatic immunoassay (EIA) and/or a rapid screening device.
- Confirmation: Positive results from the initial screening are confirmed using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), a more sensitive and specific analytical technique.
- Notification: Service members are notified of the test results and any subsequent actions required, such as counseling or medical treatment.
**Consequences of Failing a Drug Test in the Military**
Failing a drug test in the military can have serious consequences, including:
- Administrative Discharge: Service members who fail a drug test may be subjected to administrative discharge, even if they have served with distinction.
- Dishonorable Discharge: Failing a drug test may also result in an other-than-honorable (OTH) discharge, which can impact future employment, education, and benefits opportunities.
- Counseling and Treatment: Service members who fail a drug test may be required to attend counseling and treatment programs.
- Court-Martial: In some cases, service members who fail a drug test may be subject to criminal charges and court-martial proceedings.
Conclusion:
The military takes drug use very seriously, and drug testing is an integral part of ensuring the effectiveness and readiness of its personnel. As of 2024, the military tests for a range of illegal and prescription drugs, as well as metabolites of certain substances. Service members who fail a drug test face serious consequences, and it is essential to adhere to the military’s strict drug policies to avoid punitive actions.
