A 10-panel hair follicle test is designed to screen for the presence of ten different classes of commonly abused drugs over an extended period, typically up to 90 days. This method provides a historical overview of drug use, making it a valuable tool for various screening purposes.
Common Substances Detected by a 10 Panel Hair Follicle Test
While the exact panel can vary slightly between laboratories, a standard 10-panel hair follicle test commonly screens for the following major categories of drugs and their metabolites:
| Drug Category | Common Names / Examples |
|---|---|
| Amphetamines | Methamphetamines (meth, speed), Ecstasy (MDMA), Adderall, Ritalin |
| Cannabinoids | Marijuana, Hash, THC |
| Cocaine | Coke, Crack |
| Opiates | Heroin, Opium, Codeine, Morphine, Oxycodone, Hydrocodone |
| Phencyclidine | PCP, Angel Dust |
| Barbiturates | Phenobarbital, Amytal, Butalbital |
| Benzodiazepines | Xanax, Valium, Klonopin, Ativan |
| Methadone | Dolophine, Methadose |
| Propoxyphene | Darvon, Darvocet |
| Quaaludes | Methaqualone (less common now but historically included) |
It's important to note that while some specific drugs like Ecstasy are often grouped under Amphetamines, certain panels might test for them individually or in more granular categories.
How Hair Follicle Testing Works
Hair follicle drug tests analyze drug metabolites that have been absorbed into the hair shaft from the bloodstream. When drugs are consumed, their metabolites circulate throughout the body, eventually making their way into the hair follicles. As the hair grows, these metabolites become encased within the hair shaft, providing a record of drug use.
Key aspects of hair follicle testing include:
- Detection Window: A standard hair test uses a hair sample approximately 1.5 inches long, which can typically detect drug use over the past 90 days. For every half-inch of hair, roughly 30 days of drug history can be assessed.
- Accuracy: Hair tests are considered highly accurate and difficult to adulterate or tamper with, as the sample is usually collected directly from the scalp.
- Collection Process: A small sample of hair (about 100 strands) is cut close to the scalp, usually from the crown of the head. This process is non-invasive and generally quick.
- Advantages: Compared to urine or saliva tests, hair tests offer a much longer detection window, making them ideal for pre-employment screening, random drug testing, or post-accident investigations where a longer history of substance use is relevant.
Who Uses 10 Panel Hair Follicle Tests?
Hair follicle drug tests are commonly utilized by:
- Employers: Especially in industries where safety is paramount, such as transportation, manufacturing, and construction, to screen potential new hires and conduct ongoing random testing.
- Courts and Legal Systems: For probation, parole, or child custody cases, where a comprehensive history of drug use is required.
- Government Agencies: For various security-sensitive positions.
- Parents or Individuals: Sometimes used privately for personal reassurance or intervention purposes.
Understanding the specific substances a 10-panel hair follicle test screens for is crucial for anyone undergoing or administering such a test, providing clear insights into a person's drug use history over an extended period. For more information on drug testing methods and substances, you can consult reliable resources such as the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA).
