6-Panel Drug Tests

Edmund Murphy
Dr. Jennie Stanford
Written by Edmund Murphy on 24 April 2023
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jennie Stanford on 28 November 2024

6-panel drug tests are less frequently used than 5 or 10-panel tests, and they typically use urine samples for detecting drug metabolites.

Key takeaways:
  • A 6-panel drug test includes the five main categories of drugs from a 5-panel test (marijuana, cocaine, basic opioids, phencyclidine, and amphetamines), plus barbiturates or benzodiazepines.
  • The 6-panel drug test is used less commonly than a 5-panel or a 10-panel test, but it may be preferred by some employers, legal cases, and athletic associations for cost or other reasons.

What is a 6-panel drug test?

A 6-panel drug test screens for the same metabolites as a 5-panel test, with the addition of either benzodiazepines or barbiturates, depending on the laboratory.

What drugs are tested for in a 6-panel test?

  • Marijuana (including THC and cannabinoids)
  • Cocaine
  • Opioids (including heroin, codeine, hydrocodone, and morphine)
  • Phencyclidine (PCP, angel dust)
  • Amphetamines/methamphetamines (including methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine)
  • Barbiturates or benzodiazepines

What sample methods are used for 6-panel drug tests?

The 6-panel drug test is most commonly sampled as a urine drug screen. However, blood, hair follicle, and saliva tests can also be used under lab conditions. These forms of 6-panel drug tests are not usually available for home use. Read here for more information on the different types of drug tests.

Where can I get a 6-panel drug test?

6-panel drug tests are available to order online, through dedicated retailers, through your local doctors, and in medical facilities. A specific test provider may be required for employment, legal, and athletic purposes.

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Resources:

  1. Drug Testing Resources. (n.d.). Www.samhsa.gov.
  2. Mobile Health. (n.d.) What Are the Different Drug Panels? 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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