In order to detect the presence of illegitimate substances in someone’s system, employers, probation officers, and other organizations usually use drug testing as an effort to discourage drug use and to promote a better and healthier environment. There are a few drug tests known to the public. One of the most popular ones is called the 5 panel drug test. This one has increased in popularity in recent years due to several reasons, including the fact that drug abuse has become a big concern among the public.
Talking about a 5-panel drug test, you may be wondering how far back can a 5 panel drug test detect drug use. Keep reading to find out the answer to the question.
About the 5-Panel Drug Test
The 5-panel drug test is made to identify the presence of drugs in the system of an individual. The types of drugs that can be detected by this test include marijuana or THC, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and phencyclidine or PCP. These drugs have different detection windows or can be detected differently in the body after use.
Types of 5-Panel Drug Test
Commonly, the 5-panel drug test only involves analyzing a urine sample. In some cases, it may also include some other testing methods such as saliva tests or hair follicles. Below are some differences between urine 5-panel drug test and oral 5-panel drug test:
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Criteria |
Urine 5-Panel Drug Testing |
Oral 5-Panel Drug Testing |
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Common Uses |
It is commonly used in drug testing programs, which include workplace testing and drug treatment programs. | When it comes to popularity, it is less common than urine drug testing. However, more people prefer to use it now. |
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Accuracy |
It is more accurate for detecting drug use. | For some drugs such as marijuana, it loses to urine testing when it comes to accuracy. However, its accuracy keeps improving. |
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Prices |
It is cheaper than oral fluid testing. | It is more expensive compared to urine testing. |
How Far Back Can a Thing Known as a 5-Panel Drug Test Detect Drug Use?
Generally, drug use can be detected by a 5-panel drug test within the past 2-3 days for most drugs. The details are as follows:
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Marijuana (THC)
There are a few factors that determine the detection window for marijuana. Some of them include frequency of use, metabolism, and body mass index or BMI. Generally, this kind of drug can be detected in urine for up to 30 days after heavy, chronic use. If the users consume it occasionally and have a lower BMI, they may be tested positive for a shorter duration, usually up to 10 days.
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Cocaine
Cocaine is the type of drug that is quickly metabolized. It can usually be detected in urine for 2 to 4 days after use. If it is used heavily, the detection window may be extended to around a week.
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Opiates
Opiates, such as heroin and prescription painkillers, are detectable in urine for 2 to 3 days after use. However, some opioids, such as methadone, may be able to be detected for longer periods, up to a week.
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Amphetamines
Amphetamines and methamphetamines are the kinds of drugs that can be detected in urine for about 2 to 4 days after use. It is possible for the detection window to increase if these substances are used heavily or prolonged.
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Phencyclidine (PCP)
After use, phencyclidine or PCP has a detection window of 7 to 14 days in urine. However, it can be different. In chronic users, it can be detected for up to a month.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the 5-panel drug test is the most common method used to identify recent drug use. It screens for marijuana or THC, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP. While the detection windows for each drug can vary, in general, they range from a few days to a month.
The 5-panel drug test is usually used for a few things, such as employment, legal systems, rehabilitation programs, and sports. Talking about this drug test, it is worth noting that it only focuses on certain drugs and may not have the ability to detect other substances or new emerging drugs.
A bookworm and researcher especially related to law and citizenship education. I spend time every day in front of the internet and the campus library.
