However, the role of saliva in detecting drugs of abuse remains unclear because of variations in analytical methodology, the dose regimen of subjects, and the elapsed time between drug intake and sample collection. Use of saliva eliminates the issue of protection of privacy and of adulteration during sample collection. In contrast to urine as a medium, saliva can provide an estimate of the current level of intoxication. However, most drugs are retained in saliva for a shorter time than in urine, and concentrations of drugs are lower in saliva. Much information needs to be accumulated before scientific and technical guidelines for saliva analysis can be recommended. 6 tables, 3 figures, and 101 references