Many employers conduct swab tests on their employees to check for drug use. The mouth swab test is easier to pass than the urine or blood test because it usually cannot detect drug use that was more than a few days ago. However, this technology is new and always changing so you should be on the lookout. Most of the advice from the internet is not very effective and even dangerous, but there are some small ways to increase your chances. In fact, the only effective way to ensure that you pass the swab test is to abstain from drugs for at least 2-3 days before the swab test.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Passing the Test without Preparation
Step 1. Suck sour candy to make saliva more acidic
The more acidic and sugary your saliva is, the harder it is to detect drugs. So, if you only have 5–10 minutes before the mouth swab test, suck on 2-3 sour citrus candies. Suck (don't chew) to get as much sour citrus flavor out of the candy as possible!
Several studies have shown that swab test results for drug use show lower rates for patients who have smoked citrus gum
Step 2. Chew gum to increase saliva production
Try chewing gum to stimulate saliva production, which will dilute the concentration of the drug in the saliva. Chewing gum will also change the chemical composition of oral fluids, which can make the mouth swab test less effective. If you can, choose a cinnamon or citrus flavored candy.
It's a good idea to take a pack of gum with you to work if you're worried about an impromptu mouth swab test
Step 3. Rinse mouth with hydrogen peroxide 5 minutes before the test
Peroxide is what is known as an “adulterant”, a chemical that interferes with the accuracy of the oral swab test in detecting drugs. Gargle the peroxide just before the test for 30 seconds. Then, throw it into the sink. Be careful not to accidentally ingest the peroxide. This substance harms the inside of the body if swallowed.
- If you don't have peroxide on hand, try rinsing with mouthwash, which is also an adulterant.
- Avoid using alcohol-based mouthwash because it can give positive results against excessive alcohol consumption.
Method 2 of 2: Preparing for the Test
Step 1. Avoid taking the drug 72 hours before testing
The mouth swab test is only able to detect drugs that have been ingested in the last 48–72 hours. Most oral swab tests are done to check for marijuana use because the THC compound in it is easily detected in saliva. However, just in case, do not take the drug for 72 hours. It is recommended not to take the drug for 72 hours to play it safe, especially if you are a heavy user.
Also, avoid cough suppressants that contain codeine
Step 2. Include high fat foods in the menu for 48 hours
Prior to testing, THC molecules in the bloodstream (and saliva) readily bound to fat. Then, when removed from the body, fat also carries THC, making drugs more difficult to detect. So, since 2 days before the mouth swab test, eat foods rich in fat to drain THC from the body.
Foods such as fast food and heavily processed foods are rich in fat. For a healthy option, try eating tuna or salmon, along with avocado, eggs, nuts, and cheese
Step 3. Drink throughout the day to increase saliva production
In theory, new saliva will have a lower concentration of medicinal chemicals than old saliva. Keep your body hydrated by drinking water, herbal teas, or fruit juices as often as possible to produce more saliva. Also, avoid drinks that dehydrate the body, such as coffee, black tea, and alcohol.
Chemicals that enter the saliva from the bloodstream can also be "drained" in a similar way. However, there is no harm in increasing body fluids and saliva production 48-72 hours before testing
Step 4. Brush your teeth twice a day to get rid of old saliva
This method isn't very effective, but it does a decent job of reducing the amount of THC (or a chemical from another medication) that's left in the mouth. Use a new toothbrush and a reputable brand of toothpaste, and brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes after breakfast and dinner. Be sure to scrub your tongue and cheeks as well as your teeth. After that, rinse and throw away.
Brushing your teeth thoroughly and consistently isn't a magic trick that works wonders, but it does ensure that old oral fluids don't stay in your mouth
Step 5. Gargle every 15 minutes for 4-5 hours before testing
If you go to work and find that testing will be done in 4-5 hours, don't panic. Go to the bathroom, and rinse your mouth with water for 20-30 seconds. Repeat every quarter hour before the swab test. Rinsing with water will reduce the concentration of THC (or any other medicinal chemical in your saliva, making it harder to detect.
The effect of this method is not too large and only temporary. However, this method is the easiest to do
Tips
- Being in the same room as a marijuana user will not affect salivation for more than 30-45 minutes.
- Eating poppy seeds can make you test positive for heroin, but usually only for an hour. Most drug testers now adhere to rules that prevent misdiagnosis of poppy seeds. However, this also makes them no longer understand the reason for "eating poppy seeds."
- The mouth swab test will not give results if there is not enough saliva. Coming in with a dry mouth will only make the test longer and unpleasant
