What is a 5-panel drug test? What is a 10-panel drug test? What substances are included in a DOT drug test panel? What drugs are typically tested for in a workplace setting? Can Fentanyl be detected? In this article, you'll gain insights into various drug test panels, including the specifics of a 13-panel drug test. You can conveniently order any of the standard drug test panels through our website or call us at 800-221-4291 to arrange for custom testing options.
Our drug test panels are available for urine, hair, and oral fluid testing. In the case of oral fluid drug testing, many employers opt to perform the specimen collection themselves on-site. You can easily order urine drug tests or hair drug tests online.
Learn more about the 5-panel and 10-panel drug tests, as well as other available testing options below:
The 5-panel drug test can be conducted using a urine, hair, or oral fluid specimen. It should also include what is known as specimen validity testing at the laboratory. This process checks for factors like specific gravity, creatinine levels, pH, and potential oxidizing adulterants. Essentially, validity testing ensures that the specimen is indeed urine and has not been tampered with.
There are several versions of the traditional 5-panel drug test, but I always recommend the most up-to-date version—the same 5-panel drug test used by the Department of Transportation (DOT). This test screens for Marijuana, Cocaine, PCP (Phencyclidine), Amphetamines, and Opioids.
Instant or rapid drug tests, particularly the 5-panel variety, have gained popularity. Often referred to as a 5-panel rapid drug test, these tests provide quick results.
Recently, the 5-panel drug test has evolved to include additional substances. Under the Amphetamines category, we now test for Methamphetamines and MDMA (Ecstasy). The Opioids panel, formerly known as the "opiates" panel, has also expanded. Initially, the test included only common opioids, but now it includes 6-Acetylmorphine (6AM), a specific metabolite that detects heroin use.
Further expansion of the opioid testing includes expanded opiates, such as Hydrocodone, Hydromorphone, Oxycodone, and Oxymorphone. This is often referred to as a 5-panel drug test with expanded opiates or a 5-panel DOT-like drug test. The term "DOT-like" indicates that the configuration of drugs tested is the same as the one used in Department of Transportation-regulated drug testing.
In summary, I highly recommend using the most recent 5-panel drug test, particularly the DOT-like version, which includes the expanded opiates panel for a more comprehensive screening.
10-Panel Drug Test
In non-DOT, non-regulated drug testing, many people opt for the 10-panel drug test. This is one of the other standard drug test configurations. The first five panels are identical to the 5-panel drug test, including the expanded opiates. Then, five additional substances are added: Barbiturates, Benzodiazepines, Methaqualone, Methadone, and Propoxyphene. Together, these create the standard 10-panel drug test, widely recognized in the drug testing industry and laboratories.
It’s worth noting that some laboratories have started omitting Methaqualone, which is commonly known as Quaaludes, from the test. This is because it’s no longer widely used and rarely results in positive tests. While many labs still include it, some have removed it, effectively creating a 9-panel test.
Other Drug Test Panels Beyond the 5 and 10 Panel
Beyond the familiar 5-panel and 10-panel tests, some clients request 13-panel, 14-panel, or 15-panel tests. However, there isn’t a standard configuration for tests beyond the 10-panel. If you require a test beyond the 10-panel, it’s essential to specify the substances you'd like to have included.
Some of the common substances added in these extended panels include:
- Fentanyl: With the rise of opioid overdoses, especially from fentanyl, testing for this dangerous drug is becoming increasingly necessary. Fentanyl testing is now available.
- Ketamine: Known as a "horse tranquilizer," ketamine is gaining popularity among young people, making it a common addition to extended panels.
- Tramadol: Often used in hospital settings, tramadol is another drug frequently tested for, especially in healthcare environments.
- Meperidine: Another opioid painkiller sometimes added to expanded drug panels.
- Buprenorphine (BUP): Commonly prescribed under the brand name Suboxone, buprenorphine is used to treat opioid addiction. However, it is sometimes abused by individuals who may be selling or using it recreationally.
In urine drug testing, we can conduct tests ranging from the 10-panel to 13-panel and up to 20-panel tests in healthcare settings, depending on the drugs requested.
Hair testing can detect up to 17 panels, including the aforementioned substances like fentanyl, ketamine, tramadol, and buprenorphine.
Oral fluid testing is still somewhat limited compared to other methods. Some labs can offer a 9-panel oral fluid test with the option to add alcohol testing.
Ultimately, the exact test panel you need depends on the specific substances you want to detect. Whether you require a 10-panel drug test, an extended panel, or specialized testing, be sure to communicate your requirements so the correct drugs are included in the test.