Understanding 7 and 8 Panel Drug Tests: What Substances Are Detected?

Drug testing remains a common practice in many employment settings, pre-employment screenings, and compliance programs. Among the various options available, 7 and 8 panel drug tests offer comprehensive substance screening capabilities. Understanding what these tests detect can help individuals and employers make informed decisions about drug testing protocols.

What Are Panel Drug Tests? Understanding the Basics

Panel drug tests are named according to the number of drug categories they screen for simultaneously. Each "panel" represents a specific substance or drug class that the test can detect. These tests typically use urine samples, though blood, saliva, or hair samples may also be used depending on the testing context.

The complexity and comprehensiveness of the test increase with the number of panels. For instance, while a basic 5-panel test covers common substances, 7-panel tests expand the screening to include additional substances that employers may be concerned about.

What is a 7 Panel Drug Test? Substances Detected

A 7 panel drug test typically screens for seven specific categories of drugs. While exact configurations can vary slightly between testing providers, a standard 7 panel drug test usually includes:

• Marijuana (THC)
• Cocaine
• Amphetamines/Methamphetamines
• Opiates (such as heroin, codeine, morphine)
• Phencyclidine (PCP)
• Benzodiazepines (such as Valium, Xanax)
• Barbiturates

What is in a 7 panel drug test may sometimes include MDMA (Ecstasy) instead of one of the above categories, depending on the specific test manufacturer and the testing goals of the organization.

What is an 8 Panel Drug Test? Complete Substance List

Building on the 7 panel test, what is an 8 panel drug test? It typically includes all the substances in the 7 panel test plus one additional category. What does an 8 panel drug test test for? The standard 8 panel test usually screens for:

• Marijuana (THC)
• Cocaine
• Amphetamines/Methamphetamines
• Opiates (such as heroin, codeine, morphine)
• Phencyclidine (PCP)
• Benzodiazepines (such as Valium, Xanax)
• Barbiturates
• Methadone

In some variations, what is in an 8 panel drug test might include MDMA (Ecstasy) or expanded opiate testing instead of methadone. The specific configuration depends on the test manufacturer and the organization's testing priorities.

Comparing 7 and 8 Panel Tests with Other Panel Options

When considering what does a 8 panel drug test test for compared to other options, it's helpful to understand the broader spectrum of panel tests available:

• 4 Panel Test: Usually includes marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, and opiates.
• 5 Panel Test: Adds PCP to the 4 panel list.
• 7 Panel Test: Adds benzodiazepines and barbiturates to the 5 panel list.
• 8 Panel Test: Adds methadone or another substance to the 7 panel list.
• 9 and 10 Panel Tests: Further expand testing to include substances like methadone, propoxyphene, or specific prescription medications.

For more comprehensive screening, some employers opt for 12, 14, or 15 panel tests that include additional prescription medications and synthetic opioids.

Does an 8 Panel Drug Test Test for Marijuana?

A common question is: does an 8 panel drug test for marijuanas? The answer is yes. Both 7 and 8 panel drug tests typically include marijuana (THC) screening as a standard component. The tests detect THC metabolites, which are compounds produced when the body processes cannabis.

For those in the cannabis industry or consumers concerned about testing, it's worth noting that packaging practices have evolved to help maintain product integrity. Many retailers now use specialized storage solutions for cannabis products that help preserve freshness while complying with regulations, though these have no impact on how long THC remains detectable in a person's system.

Best Practices for Understanding Multi-Panel Drug Testing

Whether you're an employer implementing a testing program or an individual subject to testing, understanding what do 8 panel drug tests test for is essential. Here are some best practices:

• Employers should clearly communicate which substances are being tested for in their drug screening programs.
• Individuals should be aware that prescription medications can trigger positive results and should disclose prescribed medications to testing administrators.
• Testing should be conducted by certified laboratories to ensure accuracy and proper chain of custody.
• For more comprehensive information on passing drug tests legally, review these guidelines.

It's also important to note that some panel tests may include alcohol screening, though this is less common in standard panel tests and often requires a separate test.

As workplace drug testing policies evolve, particularly regarding marijuana in states where it's legal, staying informed about what substances are included in different panel tests becomes increasingly important for both employers and employees navigating changing regulations.