Ashley Okoroigwe Ashley Okoroigwe

What Drugs Show Up on a Urine Drug Test? (Complete Guide)

Urine drug testing is one of the most common screening methods used by employers, DOT programs, and medical providers. But what drugs actually show up? This guide explains the substances tested, detection windows, and what to expect during testing.

What Drugs Show Up on a Urine Drug Test?

Urine drug testing is the most widely used drug screening method for employment, DOT (Department of Transportation), court orders, and medical testing. It’s affordable, reliable, and able to detect a wide range of substances.

If you're wondering what a urine drug test can detect — here’s your complete guide.

The Standard 5-Panel Urine Drug Test

The 5-panel test is the most common screening used by employers and federal programs.

  • Marijuana (THC)

    • Examples: Cannabis

    • Common street names: Weed, Pot

  • Cocaine

    • Examples: Cocaine Hydrochloride, Crack

    • Common street name: Coke

  • Opiates

    • Examples: Heroin, Morphine, Codeine

    • Common street names: Dope, Smack

  • Amphetamines

    • Examples: Adderall, Methamphetamine

    • Common street names: Meth, Speed

  • PCP

    • Example: Phencyclidine

    • Common street name: Angel Dust

The Expanded 10-Panel Drug Test

Many employers choose a 10-panel test for broader screening.

In addition to the 5 drugs above, it also includes:

  • Benzodiazepines

    • Examples: Xanax, Valium, Ativan

  • Barbiturates

    • Example: Phenobarbital

  • Methadone

    • Used for pain management or addiction treatment

  • Propoxyphene

    • Pain medication (less commonly prescribed today)

  • Quaaludes (Methaqualone)

    • Sedative (rare today but still included in some panels)

DOT Drug Testing Panel

For safety-sensitive positions (truck drivers, bus drivers, aviation, etc.), DOT urine testing screens for:

  • Marijuana (THC)

  • Cocaine

  • Amphetamines (including meth)

  • Opiates (including heroin)

  • PCP

DOT tests follow federal regulations and require strict collection procedures.

How Long Do Drugs Stay Detectable in Urine?

  • Marijuana (THC): 1–30+ days (depends on frequency of use)

  • Cocaine: 2–4 days

  • Opiates: 2–3 days

  • Amphetamines: 2–4 days

  • Benzodiazepines: 3–6 weeks (with long-term use)

  • PCP: 7–14 daysDetection depends on body fat, metabolism, frequency of use, and hydration.

What About Prescription Medications?

Prescription drugs can show up. However:

  • A Medical Review Officer (MRO) verifies legal prescriptions

  • You may be asked to provide proof of your medication

  • Legitimate prescriptions do not automatically mean a failed test

Why Urine Testing Is Preferred

✔ Cost-effective
✔ Non-invasive
✔ Detects recent drug use
✔ Accepted by DOT & employers
✔ Reliable and scientifically validated

Need a Drug Test?

At ARG Diagnostic Testing, we provide:

  • Employer drug testing programs

  • DOT-compliant testing

  • Random & pre-employment testing

  • Rapid and lab-based urine testing

  • Mobile on-site collections

We offer fast, confidential, and professional service for individuals and companies.

📞 Call: 877-820-2925
🌐 www.argdiagnostictesting.com

Read More