Overview of Lab Drug Tests

Laboratory-based drug testing is a methodical analysis of biological specimens, such as urine, blood, saliva, hair, or sweat, to detect the presence of specific drugs or their metabolites. The main objective is to determine whether an individual has consumed particular substances and to ensure drug-free environments in workplaces, sports, and legal settings.

Commonly Detected Drugs

Laboratories typically test for a variety of drugs, categorized mainly into the following panels:

• Marijuana (THC): Commonly screened in all drug test panels.
• Cocaine: Detected in panels such as 5-panel and 10-panel tests.
• Amphetamines: Includes methamphetamine and ecstasy (MDMA), tested broadly.
• Opiates: Includes codeine, morphine, heroin; usually part of 5-panel tests.
• Phencyclidine (PCP): A staple in various drug panels.
• Benzodiazepines: Often detected in expanded panels beyond the basic 5-panel.
• Barbiturates: Included in the 10-panel tests.

Detection Windows of Various Drugs

The detection window of a drug is the duration during which a drug can be identified in a test. This varies greatly depending on the drug's characteristics, the frequency of use, and the type of specimen tested.

• Marijuana (THC):
  • Urine: 3-30 days
  • Blood: 1-7 days
  • Hair: Up to 90 days
• Cocaine:
  • Urine: 2-4 days
  • Blood: 1-2 days
  • Hair: Up to 90 days
• Amphetamines:
  • Urine: 1-3 days
  • Blood: 12 hours
  • Hair: Up to 90 days
• Opiates:
  • Urine: 2-3 days
  • Blood: 6-12 hours
  • Hair: Up to 90 days
• Phencyclidine (PCP):
  • Urine: 7-14 days
  • Blood: 1-3 days
  • Hair: Up to 90 days

Hysen Company Solutions

The Hysen Company offers innovative solutions in the field of drug testing, providing comprehensive panels adapted to meet industry standards. Our services cover a wide range of detection capabilities, exceeding conventional methods with advanced technology to ensure accuracy and reliability in test results.

Key solutions include:

• Advanced Mass Spectrometry Analysis: Enhances specificity and sensitivity of drug detection.
• Customizable Panel Testing: Allows clients to tailor their drug testing panels to specific needs.
• Rapid Turnaround Time: Offers expedited results without compromising accuracy.

References

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Guidelines for Drug Testing in the Workplace.
• National Institute on Drug Abuse. Drug Testing: Frequently Asked Questions.
• Hysen Company Corporate Publications.