Hair Follicle Drug Test: FAQ | AMH Nationwide
Hair Follicle Drug Test FAQ with Clear Answers on Testing Details
The hair follicle drug test FAQ provides essential information about this testing method, including detection windows, substances tested, and collection procedures. This test analyzes hair samples to detect drug use over a 90-day period. Call (877) 731-6362 for lab testing guidance.
What is a hair follicle drug test?
A hair follicle drug test is a laboratory analysis that detects drug metabolites embedded in the hair shaft. It is used to identify drug use over an extended period, typically up to 90 days. The test is often requested by employers, legal entities, and rehabilitation programs.
The sample is collected by cutting a small amount of hair close to the scalp and sent to one of five national lab networks: Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp, Omega Labs, United States Drug Testing Labs, or ExperTox. AMH Nationwide coordinates the lab order and directs the requester to an approved collection site.
How long after drug use can a hair follicle drug test detect substances?
Hair follicle drug tests can detect drug metabolites from approximately 7 days after use up to 90 days. This is because drugs are deposited in the hair follicle as it grows, and the test analyzes the hair shaft for these metabolites.
The 7-day delay corresponds to the time it takes for hair containing drug metabolites to emerge above the scalp. The 90-day window reflects the average length of hair tested, usually 1.5 inches.
Which drugs can be detected in a hair follicle drug test?
Hair follicle drug tests typically screen for a panel of commonly abused substances, including but not limited to:
The exact panel varies by requester and lab. AMH coordinates testing through one of five national lab networks and does not offer direct online ordering. Contact (877) 731-6362 for specific panel details.
What is the hair collection process for this test?
A trained collector cuts approximately 1.5 inches of hair close to the scalp, typically from the crown area. The sample must be at least 100 strands to ensure sufficient material for analysis.
Hair collection is non-invasive and does not require urine or blood samples. AMH directs clients to authorized collection sites associated with the national lab networks. There is no online ordering; all requests must be made by phone at (877) 731-6362.
Need a Hair Follicle Drug Test?
Call (877) 731-6362 to schedule your test or get detailed information about the process and panels.
How are hair follicle drug test results processed and reviewed?
Once the hair sample arrives at the lab, it undergoes a screening followed by a confirmatory test if the initial screen is positive. All non-negative results are reviewed by a certified Medical Review Officer (MRO) as part of standard processing.
The MRO evaluates the results and any medical explanations provided before releasing the final report to the requester. This ensures accuracy and compliance with regulatory standards.
Is the hair follicle drug test used for DOT-regulated testing?
Hair follicle drug testing is not accepted for DOT-regulated safety-sensitive positions. The Department of Transportation requires urine testing following the federally certified protocol under 49 CFR Part 40.
Hair testing is commonly used for non-DOT roles where longer detection windows are desired. Employers or organizations requesting DOT testing should use urine specimens collected under the specified federal guidelines.
Common Questions
Hair treatments such as dyeing, bleaching, or perming can reduce the concentration of drug metabolites in the hair. However, labs are experienced in accounting for these variables, and a positive result is still possible. It is important to disclose any hair treatments to the collection site or Medical Review Officer.
Approximately 100 strands or 1.5 inches of hair are collected, usually from the crown of the head close to the scalp. The sample must be sufficient to analyze the 90-day detection window. If scalp hair is unavailable, body hair may be used but with limitations.
Results typically take 3 to 5 business days after the lab receives the sample. If a confirmatory test or Medical Review Officer review is required, the process may take longer. AMH will provide guidance on expected turnaround times when you call.
Hair follicle testing offers a longer detection window than urine testing, making it effective for identifying drug use over months. However, urine testing detects recent use within days and is required for DOT-regulated testing. Reliability depends on the testing purpose and timeframe.
Yes, hair follicle tests can detect even single instances of drug use if the metabolites have been incorporated into the hair shaft. The test is sensitive to drug exposure within the 90-day window but cannot determine exact timing or frequency.
To arrange testing, call (877) 731-6362. AMH will coordinate the lab order and direct you to an authorized collection site within the national lab networks. There is no online ordering or direct specimen drop-off without prior coordination.
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.