It’s no surprise that the most common option in drug and alcohol testing has been a 5-panel drug test. This option has been seen as the golden standard across Canada for ensuring employees in safety-sensitive positions are fit for duty for several years; however, since the release of the Canadian Model 6.0, our team at CannAmm Occupational Testing Services is seeing growing popularity in employers selecting the 5 panel drug test plus semisynthetic opioids.
What is a 5 panel drug test plus semisynthetic opioids and how does it compare to the other drug testing options in Canada? This testing option was recognized by the Canadian Model For Providing A Safe Workplace in 2018 and is similar to a 5 panel test as it monitors for the same 5 illicit substances, with the addition of several semisynthetics which can be seen in extended panel drug tests such as a 12 panel.
With an increase in the use of non-medical prescriptions of psychotherapeutic drugs and pain relievers, it has become a growing concern for organizations to ensure that the individuals accessing their worksites are not under the abusive influence of these substances. The use of non-medical prescriptions is one of the most prevalent drugs of choice, as reported by The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Because of these reasons, adding semisynthetic drug testing to our standard panel tests for a more comprehensive screening process is becoming a clear choice for employers.
Please see the chart below for additional details:
| Test Name |
5 Panel Drug Test |
5 Panel Drug Test plus Semisynthetic Opioids | 12 Panel Drug Test |
| Test Sample | Urine Oral Fluid |
Urine Oral Fluid |
Urine Oral Fluid |
| Test Type | Express Test Express to Lab Test Lab-Based Test |
Express Test Express to Lab Test Lab-Based Test |
Express Test Express to Lab Test Lab-Based Test |
| Substances Tested For |
|
|
|
Based on the information above, one can see that a 5 panel drug test plus semisynthetics is the best of both worlds as it is more inclusive compared to a traditional 5 panel test but does not come with some of the consequences of an extended panel test. Some of the benefits that result from utilizing this testing option are:
- Detects for additional substances of abuse
- Accepted by the Canadian 6.0 model and US DOT
- If a test indicates that there is the presence of semi-synthetic drugs, it is more likely that there is indeed a case of substance abuse rather than the use of prescription medications for medical reasons. Regardless, a test that indicates the presence of a substance will always be reviewed by a Medical Review Officer before confirming the status of a result.
Overall, this is a great option for organizations across Canada as it is accepted in both the Canadian Model 6.0 and US DOT, it has a great balance in cost compared to a standard 12 panel drug test, the turnaround time for this test can be quicker than a standard 12 panel drug test, and it tests for more substances of abuse than a standard 5 panel drug test.
Are you interested in learning more about this testing option and implementing it into your Drug and Alcohol testing policy? Connect with one of our CannAmm team members today to adjust your testing preferences.
