12-Panel Drug Test

Edmund Murphy
Dr. Jennie Stanford
Written by Edmund Murphy on 02 May 2023
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jennie Stanford on 28 November 2024

12-panel drug tests offer a more comprehensive screening than 10-panel tests and are primarily used by employers to detect prescription opioids like oxycodone as well as party drugs like ecstasy and molly (MDMA).

Key takeaways:
  • A 12-panel drug includes the 10 main categories of drugs from a 10-panel test (marijuana, cocaine, basic opioids, phencyclidine, amphetamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, methadone, propoxyphene, and methaqualone), plus it also includes more prescription opioids as well as ecstasy.
  • The 12-panel drug test is a comprehensive assessment that includes many prescription medications, as well as illicit substances.
  • 12-panel drug tests are used for medical, legal, and employment purposes.

What is a 12-panel test?

The 12-panel drug test is an in-depth drug screening test that is most commonly used by employers. It can detect the same drug metabolites as a 10-panel drug test, while also offering more rigorous detection of opioid drugs, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone.

How is a 12-panel test collected?

The 12-panel drug test is often screened as a urine sample, though hair follicle tests can also be performed. Hair follicle testing is done if the drug being tested for was taken up to 90 days prior. Read here to learn more about the types of drug test.

What drugs does a 12-panel test detect?

  • Marijuana (including THC and cannabinoids)
  • Cocaine (including Coke and crack
  • Opioids (including heroin, codeine, hydrocodone, and morphine)
  • Phencyclidine (PCP, also called angel dust)
  • Amphetamines/methamphetamines (including methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine)
  • Barbiturates (including Amytal and butalbital)
  • Benzodiazepines (including diazepam, alprazolam, clonazepam)
  • Methadone
  • Propoxyphene (including the brand Darvocet)
  • Methaqualone (also called Quaaludes, which are central nervous system depressants)
  • Expanded stimulants (like MDMA, which is ecstasy or Molly)
  • Expanded opioids (including Percodan, Percocet, oxycodone, and oxymorphone)

When will I be asked to take a 12-panel drug test?

The most common use of 12-panel drug tests is by employers requiring tests of current or prospective employees. Other settings that may require a 12-panel test include:

  • Medical screening: Your doctor may order a 12-panel drug test as part of your care.
  • Legal or forensic information: You may be required to take a drug test if you’ve been arrested or are part of a surveillance program.
  • Sports/athletics testing: Some athletic competitions require drug testing prior to competing.
  • Monitoring pain medication use: A 12-panel drug test can be used to monitor your treatment and the level of any medications in your system.A medical professional can help you determine when a 12-panel drug test is the right testing option for you.
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Resources:

Drug Testing: MedlinePlus Lab Test Information. (2017). Medlineplus.gov.

Mobile Health. (n.d.) What Drug Panel Should I Choose? Retrieved from

Activity History - Last updated: 28 November 2024, Published date:


Reviewer

Dr. Jennie Stanford

MD, FAAFP, DipABOM

Jennie Stanford, MD, FAAFP, DipABOM is a dual board-certified physician in both family medicine and obesity medicine. She has a wide range of clinical experiences, ranging from years of traditional clinic practice to hospitalist care to performing peer quality review to ensure optimal patient care.

Activity History - Medically Reviewed on 28 November 2024 and last checked on 28 November 2024

Medically reviewed by
Dr. Jennie Stanford

Dr. Jennie Stanford

MD, FAAFP, DipABOM

Reviewer

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