[5] OraQuick can be purchased by anyone above aged 17 over-the-counter at any major retail stores or online.

[1][2] In 2004, the FDA expanded its use to include oral fluid samples, improving accessibility for individuals hesitant to undergo blood testing.

[11] In July 2012, the test received approval for over-the-counter use, allowing individuals to perform it at home with a mouth swab.

[3] The OraQuick ADVANCE Rapid HIV-1/2 Antibody Test is a single-use, qualitative immunoassay that can be purchased over-the-counter (OTC).

The material is gathered and combined with buffered developer solution in a test tube.

There is a window period of approximately 3 months when individuals are still not producing enough antibodies to generate a positive result, thus it is recommended to test regularly.

[14] False negatives Testing too soon after exposure (window period), low antibody levels, antiviral therapy, and testing within 30 minutes of eating or drinking can all contribute to false negative results.