Know How 8 Panel Drug Test is Conducted
In the present scenario, where the number of drug abusers is increasing rapidly, there arises the need to control drug abuse by drug detection. Previously, different drug testing methods were employed to detect different types of drugs. But with the increased severity of the problem, the need arose for more technologically advanced, effective, convenient and reliable methods, which led to the introduction of multi panel drug testing methods. A multi-panel drug test is conducted to detect the presence of multiple drugs and their metabolites in the given sample.
8 panel drug tests are widely used among multi-panel drug test kits. An 8 panel drug test can detect as many as 8 drugs in the given specimen. It is one of the best on-site drug testing methods. The 8 panel drug test is an immunoassay drug test, which works on the principle of competitive binding. 8 panel drug testing is effective, efficient, accurate and faster.
Though these tests are easy to use, one should be aware of the procedure in which the test has to be conducted.
Drugs that can be detected
As the name suggests, an 8 panel drug test can detect up to 8 drugs. The most common sample used for the drug detection is urine. The drugs and drug metabolites that can be detected by this test kit are Cocaine, Amphetamine, Methamphetamine, Marijuana, Opiates, Phencyclidine, Barbiturates and Benzodiazepines. The traces of any of these 8 drugs can be detected by following simple directions given on the test kits.
Directions for use
8 panel drug tests are usually conducted through 8 panel drug test dip cards. Some of the instructions to be followed while conducting this test are:
• The test should be conducted at room temperature.
• Collect the sample (commonly, urine) in a clean cup. Make sure that the sample collected is not tampered or adulterated.
• After collecting the sample, take the dip card out of the pouch. It is advisable to wear gloves while handling the dip card.
• Then dip the test card in the sample cup vertically in the direction indicated by the arrows on the card.
• Immerse the card for 10-15 seconds. Make sure that the card is not immersed in the sample beyond the ‘Maximum’ line.
Then remove the test card out of the sample and place on a non-absorbent flat surface. The results should be interpreted after 5 minutes (once lines start appearing on the test card), but it should not exceed 10 minutes.
Drug analysis and results
The drug test card is based on lateral flow chromatographic immunoassay which is based on principle of competitive binding. This principle means that the drugs present in the sample compete with each other to bind to the specific antibody present in the card, which results in formation of lines. Only the drugs which are above the cut off levels form lines.
The results are interpreted based on the color and number of lines appeared on the card.
• A positive result is indicated by only one red line in the ‘Control Region (C), but no line appears in the ‘Test Region’ (T).
• A negative result is indicated by two red lines one each in Control Region and Test Region.
• An invalid result is indicated by no lines appearing in Control Region.
The results are bound to change depending on the adulteration, in correct procedures and insufficient samples.
On the whole, 8 panel drug tests are very beneficial, easy to use, efficient, accurate and fast. This testing method is widely adapted at workplaces, sports clubs, schools, laboratories and homes. Proper use of this method helps in detection of drug abusers and thereby providing correct medication.
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