This type of drug screening is a common method for detecting the presence of various illicit and prescription drugs in an individual’s system. It expands upon more basic tests by analyzing a wider range of substances, typically including but not limited to: amphetamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, cocaine metabolites, marijuana metabolites (THC), methamphetamines, opiates, phencyclidine (PCP), and propoxyphene. The substances tested can vary depending on the specific requirements of the screening program or employer.
The use of this expanded testing panel offers several advantages. It provides a more thorough assessment of potential substance abuse, allowing for informed decisions in areas such as employment, healthcare, and legal proceedings. Identifying a broader spectrum of substances allows for the detection of drug use that might be missed by less comprehensive tests. Historically, the need for this type of expanded screening has grown alongside the increasing prevalence and variety of substances being abused, necessitating more sophisticated detection methods.