A standard multi-panel drug screening, frequently referred to by a specific number of panels, is designed to detect the presence of various illicit and prescription substances. The numerical designation indicates the quantity of distinct drug classes the test can identify simultaneously. These panels typically screen for substances such as amphetamines, cocaine, opiates, phencyclidine (PCP), and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
The primary benefit of these comprehensive screenings lies in their ability to provide a broad overview of potential substance use. This is particularly useful in pre-employment screenings, workplace safety programs, and clinical settings where a wide range of substances may be of concern. Historically, such tests offered a more streamlined and cost-effective approach compared to running individual assays for each drug class.