About This Article
Zoom Testing has over 20 years’ experience supplying drug testing kits and providing practical guidance on drug screening in the UK. This article explains how saliva drug testing works and the typical detection window for buprenorphine in oral fluid.
Published: 24 July 2022 | Last Updated: 4 September 2026 | By: Anthony Cunningham
What is an Oral Fluid Drug Test?
Saliva drug tests are a quick and easy way to test for drugs. Also called oral fluid drug test kits, they are an increasingly popular way to detect whether someone has used drugs. They are more convenient to use than traditional urine tests and can be used at home, in the workplace or on site.
Oral fluid drug test kits use saliva as the sample and a saliva swab is inserted into a small container which then allows the sample to be analysed. There is no need for any other bodily fluids like urine or blood to be collected, making it extremely convenient for people who are not able to give a sample.
The oral fluid drug test kits have multiple advantages over traditional urine tests such as being easier to use and less invasive. They are frequently used as the first choice method for workplace drug testing.
Drug Detection Times for Buprenorphine in Saliva
Buprenorphine is a drug that is used to treat people who are addicted to opioids such as heroin and morphine. This drug is given as a sublingual tablet that dissolves in the mouth.
Drug detection times for buprenorphine can vary based on the individual, dose, frequency of use, test sensitivity and cut-off level. Using a saliva drug test, buprenorphine may be detectable for around 2-3 days after last use, although oral fluid detection windows can be shorter and results vary between tests and individuals.
Drug Detection Times for Drugs in Saliva
The table below gives general guide detection times for drugs commonly included in saliva drug tests. Actual detection windows and cut-off levels vary according to the test device, testing standard, dose, frequency of use and individual metabolism. Always refer to the instructions and cut-off levels supplied with the specific test being used.
| Name of Drug | Code | Detection Period | Cut-off |
| Alcohol | ALC | Real time | 0.02% BAC |
| Amphetamines | AMP | 2-3 Days | 50ng/mL |
| Benzodiazepines | BZO | 2-3 Days | 50ng/mL |
| Buprenorphine | BUP | 2-3 Days | 10ng/mL |
| Cannabis | THC | 8-12 Hours | 12ng/mL |
| Cocaine | COC | 1-2 Days | 20ng/mL |
| Cotinine | COT | 1-2 Days | 20ng/mL |
| Ecstasy | MDMA | 2-3 Days | 50ng/mL |
| Methadone | MEP | 8-12 Hours | 30ng/mL |
| Methamphetamine | mAMP | 2-3 Days | 50ng/mL |
| Opiates | OPI | 7-21 Hours | 40ng/mL |
| Oxycodone | OXY | 2-3 Days | 50ng/mL |
| Phencyclidine | PCP | 12-24 Hours | 10ng/mL |
| Spice (Synthetic Cannabis) | K2/Spice | Up to 48 Hours | 25ng/mL |
About the Author
Anthony Cunningham – Drug Testing Expert & Editor
Anthony Cunningham, BA (Hons), MA, is a UK-based drug testing expert and editor with over 20 years’ experience running Zoom Testing, a trusted source for accurate drug testing kits and testing guidance. He creates clear, evidence-based articles using UK legislation, workplace compliance standards, and harm reduction best practices. Where possible, content is reviewed by testing specialists and compliance professionals to enhance accuracy and reliability, helping readers make informed testing decisions.
Drug Testing Disclaimer
This article is for general information only. Drug test cut-off levels, detection times and results can vary according to the test, specimen type and testing standard being used. A screening result should not be used on its own to make medical, legal or employment decisions. Where a test result has significant consequences, appropriate confirmation testing and professional advice should be considered.
