One of the most common questions in workplace drug testing is simple: Which panel should we use?
The answer usually comes down to understanding what each panel is designed to detect.
A 5-panel drug test is often considered the baseline. It typically screens for five major categories of substances: marijuana (THC), cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and PCP. This panel is widely used for general workplace screening and in some regulated environments.
A 10- or 12-panel drug test expands on that foundation. In addition to the core five, these panels may include substances like benzodiazepines, barbiturates, methadone, propoxyphene, and sometimes additional opioids or synthetic drugs depending on the configuration.
So when does each make sense?
A 5-panel test may be appropriate for organizations seeking a streamlined, cost-effective screening approach. Expanded panels are often used when there is a need for broader visibility, whether due to industry risk, safety concerns, or internal policy requirements.
The key is alignment. Choosing a panel should reflect your workplace environment, not guesswork or default settings.
Fact Friday takeaway:
The difference between 5-panel and expanded panels comes down to scope. The right choice depends on what your program is designed to detect.
Using a credible resource for drug screening supplies helps support consistency and reliability across your program.
