Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cut-off levels for detection of drugs?
| Drug or Drug Class |
Initial Screen (ng/ml) |
GC/MS (ng/ml) |
| Marijuana Metabolite* |
50 |
15 |
| Cocaine Metabolite* |
300 |
50 |
| Opiate Metabolite* |
2000 |
300 |
| Phencyclidine (PCP)* |
25 |
25 |
| Amphetamines |
1000 |
500 |
*HHS/SAMSHA cut-off levels.
The non-regulated employer may choose a cut off level of 20, 50, or 100. The cut-off levels differ with respect to certain drugs for federally regulated employers and non-regulated employers, as illustrated.
How long after use can drugs be detected in urine?
APPROXIMATE RETENTION TIMES OF DRUGS IN URINE
| Drugs or Drug Classes |
Approximate Retention Time |
| Amphetamines |
1-2 days |
| Cannabinoids |
1-7 days (occasional use) |
| (Marijuana Metabolite) |
7-4 weeks (chronic use) |
| Cocaine Metabolite |
12-48 hours |
| Opiates |
1-3 days |
| Phencyclidine (PCP) |
1-8 days (occasional use) |
| |
Up to 30 days (chronic use) |
What are some common names for the classes of drugs in a five-panel test?
COMMON NAMES FOR DRUGS
| Drug or Drug Class |
Common Name |
| Amphetamines |
Speed, Crystal, Eve |
| Cannabinoids |
Marijuana, Pot, Smoke, Weed, |
| Cocaine Metabolites |
Coke, Blow, Crack, Toot |
| Opiates |
Morphine, Codeine, Heroin |
| Phencyclidine (PCP) |
PCP, Angel Dust |