Toxicology Testing After Suspected Drugging or Sexual Assault

If you suspect that you have been drugged as part of a sexual assault or another crime, it is important to understand the constraints of toxicology testing. Toxicology tests can detect the presence of drugs or alcohol in your system, which may help confirm what happened and support any legal actions you may choose to take. However, many substances leave your body as quickly as you stop feeling the effects. This means that even if your toxicology screen comes back negative, that does not necessarily mean you were not drugged. 

Here’s everything you need to know about toxicology testing, what to expect, and the resources available to you in Boston, MA.

What is Toxicology Testing?

Toxicology testing is a medical procedure where urine, blood, or other bodily fluids are tested for the presence of drugs, alcohol, or other substances. This testing is important because certain substances used in sexual assault or drug-facilitated crimes can leave your system quickly. 

Why is Toxicology Testing Important?

  • Confirming suspected drugging: If you believe that you were drugged during the assault, toxicology testing can detect drugs such as GHB, ketamine, rohypnol, or other substances commonly used in drug-facilitated sexual assaults.
  • Legal evidence: The results of a toxicology test can serve as evidence if you decide to pursue a criminal case.
  • Medical care: Identifying the presence of drugs or alcohol can help medical providers offer the right care, including treatments for poisoning or drug-related side effects.

When Should You Get Tested?

If you suspect that you were drugged, it is essential to get toxicology testing as soon as possible. Substances used in drugging may leave the body within hours—often within 12 hours—so the sooner you get tested, the more likely it is that the drugs will be detected.

Here’s a breakdown of time sensitivity:

  • Immediate Testing: If you feel you have been drugged, seek medical care immediately. Early testing increases the chances of detecting the substances used.
  • Within 24 Hours: Testing within the first 24 hours is most effective for detecting drugs such as GHB and ketamine.
  • Up to 5 Days: Some substances may still be detectable within 5 days, depending on the substance and the test used.

How to Get Toxicology Testing in Boston

You can access toxicology testing through any hospital emergency department, where Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE) can help collect the necessary samples (urine, blood, etc.) and send them for analysis. We often recommend BU students go to Beth Israel, however, the following hospitals in Boston, MA, also provide SANE services and toxicology testing:

Hospitals Offering Toxicology Testing in Boston:

    1. Massachusetts General Hospital
       (Located on the Red Line from MIT)
    2. Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
    3. Boston Children’s Hospital (For individuals under 21)
    4. Boston Medical Center
    5. Brigham & Women’s Hospital
    6. CHA Cambridge Hospital

      When you arrive at the hospital, tell the intake coordinator that you suspect you’ve been drugged or sexually assaulted. They will guide you through the process and connect you with the necessary care, including toxicology testing.

      What Happens During Toxicology Testing?

      • Urine Test: A urine sample is often taken to test for drugs such as GHB, rohypnol, and benzodiazepines.
      • Blood Test: Blood may be drawn to test for alcohol levels or other drugs that are harder to detect in urine.

      Can You Test Anonymously?

      Yes, you can request testing to be done anonymously. This means that your personal details do not need to be connected to the toxicology test results if you choose not to report the incident to the police at that time. However, if you later decide to pursue legal action, the evidence may be used. 

      Your Rights Regarding Toxicology Testing

      • Confidentiality: All tests and results are confidential. If you go through the hospital’s SANE program, your personal information is kept private.
      • You Do Not Have to Report to Police: You can have toxicology testing done without reporting to the police. The decision to report is completely up to you. If you choose to report, the evidence can be used in a criminal investigation.
      • Costs: The state of Massachusetts covers the cost of forensic exams and toxicology testing for sexual assault survivors. You do not have to worry about any medical bills related to testing, and you do not need to use your health insurance.

      Support Services Available

      If you are considering toxicology testing or need support after being sexually assaulted, several organizations can help guide you through the process:

      BU Resources

      • Survivor Advocacy Response and Prevention Center (SARP) Advocacy Line (617-353-7277) available 24/7/365 for support and guidance around evidence collection, safety planning and other advocacy needs. 
        • Note: For emotional support, please call the BM hotline at 617-353-3569

      Local Resources

      Supportive Legal Resources

      • Victim Rights Law Center (Boston)
         Provides free legal assistance to survivors of sexual assault, including help navigating your rights related to toxicology testing and criminal cases.

      Final Thoughts:

      If you suspect that you were drugged or sexually assaulted, toxicology testing can  help in confirming your experience and supporting your healing process. It’s essential to act as soon as possible but know that support is available at every stage.

      Remember, you have the right to decide how you want to proceed—whether it’s seeking medical care, collecting evidence, reporting to the police, or taking time to process what happened.

      If you need help or have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of the support resources listed above. You don’t have to go through this alone.