The 14-drug panel serum test screens for 14 substances, including barbiturates, cocaine, benzodiazepines, cannabis (THC), and methamphetamine, among others, using blood serum. This expanded panel is used for comprehensive drug detection in medical, legal, or employment contexts.
Purpose: Detects recent use of multiple drug classes, including sedatives (barbiturates, benzodiazepines), stimulants (cocaine, methamphetamine), and cannabinoids (cannabis). Specific detection windows vary: barbiturates (2–7 days), cocaine (2–4 days), benzodiazepines (1–7 days), cannabis (2–30 days), and methamphetamine (1–5 days).
Sample Type: Serum (blood drawn from a vein, processed within 1–2 hours; stored at -20°C if delayed).
Procedure: No special preparation is typically needed, but informing the doctor about medications is advised. A 5–10 mL serum sample is usually required, analyzed via immunoassays with GC-MS confirmation for positives.
Limitations: Serum levels reflect recent use but may be affected by metabolism, dosage, and test sensitivity. False positives/negatives can occur, and the full 14-drug list (beyond the five mentioned) depends on the specific panel used.
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