17-Panel Hair Drug Test: FAQ | AMH Nationwide
17-Panel Hair Drug Test FAQ for Reliable Drug Screening
The 17-panel hair drug test FAQ provides detailed answers about this comprehensive hair follicle drug screening method. It detects multiple substances with a longer detection window than urine tests. This test is often used for employment or legal purposes. Call (877) 731-6362 for more information or to schedule a collection.
What is a 17-panel hair drug test?
A 17-panel hair drug test is a laboratory analysis that detects 17 different drugs or drug classes from a hair sample. It identifies drug use over a period of up to 90 days, providing a longer detection window compared to urine or saliva tests. This test is used for employment screening, legal cases, and other situations requiring detailed drug history.
Which substances are included in the 17-panel hair drug test?
The 17-panel hair drug test screens for a broad range of drugs, including but not limited to amphetamines, cocaine, marijuana (THC), opiates, phencyclidine (PCP), benzodiazepines, barbiturates, methadone, and more. Each panel corresponds to a specific drug or drug class, allowing comprehensive detection.
How is the hair sample collected for the 17-panel hair drug test?
Hair collection involves cutting a small sample of hair, usually from the crown of the head, approximately 1.5 inches in length. This sample represents about 90 days of drug use history. If head hair is unavailable, body hair can be used. The collection is done at an approved site recommended by AMH Nationwide, with no online ordering.
What is the detection window for the 17-panel hair drug test?
The detection window for the 17-panel hair drug test extends up to 90 days from the time of drug ingestion. Hair grows approximately 0.5 inches per month, so the 1.5-inch sample reflects around three months of drug use. This longer window makes hair testing suitable for identifying past drug consumption rather than recent use.
Schedule Your 17-Panel Hair Drug Test Collection
To arrange a 17-panel hair drug test, call (877) 731-6362. AMH Nationwide directs you to an approved collection site within the national lab networks. Contact us for pricing details, which vary by panel and detection window.
How are 17-panel hair drug test results reviewed and reported?
After hair samples are analyzed through one of the five national lab networks—Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, or ExperTox—non-negative results undergo review by a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO). The MRO evaluates the findings and any legitimate medical explanations before finalizing the report.
What are the limitations of the 17-panel hair drug test?
While the 17-panel hair drug test offers extended detection and broad drug coverage, it does not detect very recent drug use within the past 5 to 7 days due to the time required for drugs to incorporate into hair. It is also not approved for DOT safety-sensitive testing, which requires federally certified urine testing under 49 CFR Part 40. Hair treatments or damage can sometimes affect results.
Common Questions
The 17-panel hair drug test covers a wide range of commonly abused drugs, including amphetamines, cocaine, opiates, and synthetic cannabinoids. However, it tests only for the substances included in the specific 17-panel configuration and may not detect drugs outside this list.
Typically, results are available within 5 to 7 business days after the lab receives the hair sample. The process includes lab analysis and review by a certified Medical Review Officer for any non-negative findings.
No, the 17-panel hair drug test is not approved for Department of Transportation safety-sensitive testing. DOT regulations require federally certified urine testing under 49 CFR Part 40. Hair testing can be used for non-DOT employment situations.
Hair treatments like bleaching or dyeing can sometimes reduce drug concentration in hair samples, potentially affecting test sensitivity. However, labs use methods to detect such alterations and maintain test reliability.
A trained collector will cut a small hair sample, usually from the crown of the head, about 1.5 inches in length. The process is quick, painless, and non-invasive. If head hair is unavailable, body hair may be collected.
AMH Nationwide provides the lab order and directs you to a collection site within the five national lab networks. There is no online ordering. To schedule, call (877) 731-6362 for assistance and pricing information.
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.