A comprehensive drug test, often referred to as a 12-panel screen, is a laboratory analysis designed to detect the presence of twelve distinct classes of drugs or their metabolites in a biological sample, typically urine. This type of assessment provides information regarding an individual’s recent drug use. Common substances screened for include amphetamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, cocaine, marijuana (THC), methadone, opiates, phencyclidine (PCP), propoxyphene, methaqualone, oxycodone and alcohol. The specific substances included can vary based on the testing laboratory and the purpose of the drug screen.
This type of drug screening is used in various settings, including pre-employment screenings, workplace monitoring, clinical settings for patient care, and legal or forensic investigations. Its utility stems from the ability to identify a wide spectrum of commonly abused or misused substances, offering valuable data for decision-making in hiring processes, treatment planning, legal proceedings, and ensuring compliance with established regulations. The use of such screens has evolved over time, adapting to emerging drug trends and technological advancements in detection methodologies.