What is the procedure for substance abuse analysis aimed at?

The procedure for substance abuse analysis is primarily concerned with identifying the presence of illegal drugs and various chemical substances in biological samples, such as urine, blood, or saliva. This type of analysis is crucial in a wide range of settings, including law enforcement, rehabilitation facilities, and workplace environments, where understanding a person's exposure to or use of drugs is essential for making informed decisions about treatment, legality, or employment status.

This type of testing is comprehensive and often utilizes techniques such as immunoassays (for initial screening) and more precise methods like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to confirm the presence of specific substances. The emphasis on detecting illegal drugs ensures that the analysis readily identifies substances that can impair judgment and function, presenting health risks to individuals and the community.

Measuring blood alcohol content, determining hydration levels, and testing for metabolic disorders, while all important in their own contexts, do not adequately represent the broader scope and typical objectives of substance abuse analysis, which is focused on identifying illegal and potentially harmful substances.