--- title: "5-Panel Hair Follicle Drug Test: Detection Window | AMH Nationwide" description: "Learn about the 5-panel hair follicle drug test detection window and how long it detects drug use. Call (877) 731-6362 for lab testing info." author: "AMH Nationwide" date: "2026-08-27" tags: ["5-panel hair follicle drug test detection window"] canonical: "https://amhnationwide.com/5-panel-hair-follicle-drug-test-detection-window/" last_updated: "2026-08-27" --- # 5-Panel Hair Follicle Drug Test: Detection Window | AMH Nationwide **By AMH Nationwide** | August 27, 2026 Learn about the 5-panel hair follicle drug test detection window and how long it detects drug use. Call (877) 731-6362 for lab testing info. --- The 5-panel hair follicle drug test detection window typically spans up to 90 days, making it effective for identifying past drug use. This test analyzes hair samples to detect five common drug classes over an extended period. Factors like hair length and growth rate affect detection. Call (877) 731-6362 for testing details. OVERVIEW ## What is the detection window for a 5-panel hair follicle drug test? The 5-panel hair follicle drug test [detection window](https://amhnationwide.com/hair-follicle-drug-test-detection-window/) generally covers up to 90 days of drug use history. This test detects five drug classes by analyzing a small hair sample, typically from the scalp. Because hair grows about half an inch per month, a 1.5-inch hair sample reflects approximately three months of drug exposure. SCIENCE ## How does the 5-panel hair follicle drug test detect drugs over this period? Drugs and their metabolites enter the hair follicle from the bloodstream during hair formation. As hair grows, these substances become trapped in the hair shaft, allowing detection long after the drug use occurred. The test targets specific drug metabolites incorporated into the hair, providing a timeline of drug exposure. Hair growth rate: approximately 0.5 inches per month Standard sample length: 1.5 inches, representing 90 days Analyzes drug metabolites embedded in hair shaft DRUGS TESTED ## Which drugs are included in the 5-panel hair follicle drug test? This test detects five common drug classes: amphetamines, cocaine, marijuana (THC), opiates, and phencyclidine (PCP). Each drug class is identified by its unique metabolites in the hair sample. The test is useful for employers and agencies needing a long-term drug use history. Amphetamines Cocaine Marijuana (THC) Opiates Phencyclidine (PCP) FACTORS ## What factors can affect the 5-panel hair follicle drug test detection window? Several factors influence the detection window length for this test. Hair length is critical; shorter hair samples provide a shorter detection period. Hair color and texture may affect drug metabolite incorporation. External factors like chemical treatments can reduce detectable drug levels. Individual hair growth rates and drug usage patterns also impact results. Hair length: longer hair shows longer detection Hair color and texture influence metabolite binding Chemical treatments may degrade drug traces Individual hair growth rate variability Frequency and amount of drug use ## Need a 5-Panel Hair Follicle Drug Test? Contact AMH Nationwide to schedule your test at a collection site near you. Call (877) 731-6362 for assistance and detailed information. [Call (877) 731-6362](tel:+18777316362)[Contact Us](https://amhnationwide.com/contact-us/) PROCESS ## How is the 5-panel hair follicle drug test collected and processed? AMH Nationwide directs clients to collection sites within five national lab networks: [Quest Diagnostics](https://www.questdiagnostics.com/), [LabCorp](https://www.labcorp.com/), Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, and ExperTox. A small hair sample is cut close to the scalp, usually about 1.5 inches in length. The sample is sent to the lab for analysis. Non-negative results are reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer. LIMITATIONS ## Are there limitations to the 5-panel hair follicle drug test detection window? While this test detects drug use over about 90 days, it cannot detect very recent use within 5 to 7 days, as hair needs time to grow beyond the scalp. Additionally, the test does not detect alcohol or certain synthetic drugs. Detection sensitivity may vary with hair treatments or individual differences. AMH Reviewed & Maintained By AMH Nationwide Customer Service AMH Nationwide is BBB A+ accredited and routes every order through Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, or ExperTox, all of which use multiple lab certification agencies and standards such as [SAMHSA](https://www.samhsa.gov/workplace/drug-testing)-aligned laboratory protocols, the ANSI National Accreditation Board for forensic testing and calibration, the College of American Pathologists (CAP), and Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA). Every non-negative screen is reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer as part of standard processing before a result is released, and chain-of-custody documentation is maintained on every collection. This page does not constitute medical or legal advice. **Last updated:** July 2026 You May Also Need [Nail Drug TestingNo head or body hair available? A 5-panel fingernail test covers a similar look-back window.Learn more →](https://amhnationwide.com/5-panel-fingernail-drug-test/)[ChildGuard: Environmental ExposureConcerned about a child or loved one? ChildGuard screens for exposure to drugs in their environment.Learn more →](https://amhnationwide.com/5-panel-hair-drug-test-environmental-exposure-childguard/)[Shorten the Detection WindowShortened options like 30 and 60 day hair panels are also available, useful when a urine test’s 1-3 day window is too short.Learn more →](https://amhnationwide.com/30-day-hair-drug-test/)[Hair ETG Alcohol TestAlso need alcohol testing? The hair ETG test screens for alcohol use, and can be added to the same collection.Learn more →](https://amhnationwide.com/etg-and-peth/) Frequently Asked Questions ## Common Questions It can detect drug use up to approximately 90 days prior to the test by analyzing hair segments grown during that period. No, drugs used within 5 to 7 days before the test typically cannot be detected because hair needs time to grow out from the scalp. Hair color can influence how drug metabolites bind, but labs account for these variations during analysis. This test covers amphetamines, cocaine, marijuana (THC), opiates, and phencyclidine (PCP). Yes, bleaching or dyeing hair can reduce the concentration of drug metabolites, potentially affecting detection. Call (877) 731-6362 to be directed to a collection site within our five national lab networks. AMH provides the lab order and test coordination. Sources • [SAMHSA – Mandatory Guidelines for Federal Workplace Drug Testing Programs](https://www.samhsa.gov/workplace/drug-testing) • [U.S. DOT – 49 CFR Part 40 – Procedures for Transportation Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing Programs](https://www.transportation.gov/odapc/part40) • [CDC – National Center for Health Statistics – Drug Use FastStats](https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/drug-use.htm) • [Quest Diagnostics – Employer Solutions, Hair Testing Methodology](https://www.questdiagnostics.com/) • [LabCorp – Occupational Testing Services](https://www.labcorp.com/) ## 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. [Call (877) 731-6362](tel:+18777316362)[Contact Us](https://amhnationwide.com/contact-us/) --- **Need a drug, alcohol, HIV or STD test?** AMH Nationwide is a national lab testing agency operating since 2004, with more than 20,000 collection sites across the United States. Hair, urine, fingernail and blood testing, panels from 5 through 19, for individuals and employers. - Call: (877) 731-6377 - Find a collection site: https://amhnationwide.com/locations/ - Full page: https://amhnationwide.com/5-panel-hair-follicle-drug-test-detection-window/