10-Panel Hair Follicle Drug Test: How It Works | AMH Nationwide
Understanding 10-Panel Hair Follicle Drug Test How It Works for Reliable Results
The 10-panel hair follicle drug test how it works involves collecting a small hair sample, which is analyzed by national labs using screening and confirmation steps. A certified Medical Review Officer reviews all non-negative results to ensure accuracy. Call (877) 731-6362 for more information.
What is a 10-panel hair follicle drug test and how does it work?
A 10-panel hair follicle drug test detects the presence of ten different drug classes by analyzing a small hair sample. The test works by identifying drug metabolites that have been deposited in the hair shaft from the bloodstream. Hair samples typically reflect drug use over a 90-day period, making this test a valuable tool for long-term drug detection.
How is the hair sample collected for a 10-panel hair follicle drug test?
The hair sample collection for a 10-panel hair follicle drug test is a straightforward process conducted at a designated collection site. A trained collector cuts approximately 1.5 inches of hair close to the scalp, usually from the crown area. This length corresponds to about three months of drug history. The sample is then securely sealed and sent to one of five national laboratory networks for analysis.
What happens during lab analysis of the 10-panel hair follicle drug test?
Once the hair sample arrives at the lab, it undergoes a two-step testing process. First, an initial screening using immunoassay detects the presence of drug metabolites. If the screen is non-negative, a confirmation test is performed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to ensure accuracy and eliminate false positives.
How are non-negative results reviewed in the 10-panel hair follicle drug test process?
All non-negative test results are reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO). The MRO evaluates laboratory findings alongside any medical explanations provided by the individual tested. This step is critical to confirm the validity of positive results and to rule out legitimate prescriptions or other factors that could affect the outcome.
To schedule a 10-panel hair follicle drug test collection
Call (877) 731-6362 to arrange a collection at a certified site near you. AMH Nationwide directs you through every step for accurate testing.
Which laboratories process the 10-panel hair follicle drug test?
The 10-panel hair follicle drug test samples are routed through five national laboratory networks: Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Omega Laboratories, United States Drug Testing Labs, and ExperTox. Each lab follows standardized procedures for collection, analysis, and reporting to ensure consistent and reliable results.
What are the limitations of the 10-panel hair follicle drug test?
The 10-panel hair follicle drug test cannot detect very recent drug use within the past 7 to 10 days due to the time required for drugs to incorporate into hair. It also may not detect certain drugs that do not incorporate well into hair or in cases where hair length is insufficient. Hair treatments like bleaching or dyeing can potentially affect test results.
Common Questions
Results typically take 3 to 5 business days after the lab receives the hair sample. The process includes screening, confirmation, and MRO review for non-negative results.
Yes, chemical treatments like bleaching, dyeing, or perming can potentially alter the hair structure and affect drug metabolite levels, sometimes leading to inconclusive results.
The test screens for ten drug classes including cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, methamphetamines, cannabinoids, phencyclidine (PCP), benzodiazepines, barbiturates, ecstasy (MDMA), and oxycodone.
No, DOT-regulated safety-sensitive testing requires the federally certified urine protocol under 49 CFR Part 40. Hair follicle testing is used for non-DOT roles.
A trained collector at a designated collection site performs the hair sample collection following strict protocols to ensure sample integrity.
AMH Nationwide provides the lab order and directs the requester to a certified collection site. There is no online ordering. Call (877) 731-6362 to begin.
Ready to get started?
AMH Nationwide provides the lab order and arranges collection nationwide. Every non-negative result reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer. Call (877) 731-6362 or contact us.