Evaluation of the Q.E.D.™ saliva alcohol test: A new, rapid, accurate device for measuring ethanol in saliva

Abstract

To evaluate the accuracy of the Q.E.D. A-150 Saliva Alcohol Test, a new device that gives a specific quantitative blood alcohol level by measuring saliva alcohol concentration in the range of 0 to 150 mg/dL. Forty-two healthy volunteers consumed 4.5 to 6 oz of alcohol in the form of beer, wine, or liquor over a 90-minute period. Blood and saliva samples were obtained for alcohol measurement at 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes after the last drink. Blood samples were analyzed within 24 hours by gas chromatography at a commercial clinical laboratory. Saliva samples were tested immediately using the new Q.E.D. A-150 Saliva Alcohol Test. Excellent correlation was observed between saliva and blood alcohol levels over the range of 0 to 150 mg/dL (slope = 1.0; intercept = 2.4; r = .98). The Q.E.D. Test is an accurate device for specific quantitative measurement of alcohol levels using saliva.