Pubdate: Thu, 03 Aug 2000 Source: New Times (CA) Contact: http://newtimes-slo.com/ Author: Robert Sharpe Related: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v00/n1063/a05.html DRUG-TESTING DANGERS Concealing the dates of drug tests in Templeton Unified School District does not change the fact that urinalysis is actually counterproductive when it comes to keeping students off drugs, at least in terms of the relative dangers of different drugs ["Templeton May Change Drug-testing Policy," New Times, July 27]. Drug testing profiteers are quick to list the many drugs tested for, but loath to reveal the efficacy of urine tests. There is only one drug that stays in the human body long enough to make urinalysis a deterrent. That drug is marijuana, and the reason its metabolites linger beyond a few days is because they are fat soluble. Harder drugs like heroin and ecstasy are water soluble and exit the human body within 48 hours - sooner if the user chooses to flush his or her system with water. If you think students don't know this, think again. Ironically, the least dangerous recreational drug is the only one whose use is discouraged by testing. Finally, I would like to point out that the most commonly abused drug and the one most often associated with violent behavior is almost impossible to detect with urinalysis. That drug is alcohol, and it takes far more student lives every year than all other drugs combined. Robert Sharpe, Students for Sensible Drug Policy, Washington, D.C. - --- MAP posted-by: Jo-D