The method of toxicology screening depends on the substance being tested and the biological sample used. Common methods include:
Immunoassays: These are used for initial screening due to their ability to quickly detect a wide range of substances. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS): Known for its accuracy and specificity, it is often used to confirm the presence of a substance identified by an immunoassay. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC): This method is used for analyzing complex mixtures and is particularly useful for detecting drug metabolites.