Why Testing For Semisynthetic Opioids Is Important
As the use of non-medical prescriptions of psychotherapeutic drugs and pain relievers increases, organizations face a growing concern for the safety of their workers. Semisynthetic opioids have become one of the most prevalent drugs of choice and also one of the most commonly abused. To help employers achieve the most comprehensive testing programs, CannAmm prioritizes testing for substances that pose a risk to employees' safety and well-being. This is why we promote incorporating semisynthetic drug testing into your panel drug test of choice to ensure fitness for duty
From impaired judgment to increased accident rates, the misuse of semisynthetic opioids can significantly impact the safety and productivity of the workplace. In this blog, we’ll touch on what semisynthetics are and outline the benefits of testing and how it can be implemented effectively.
Semisynthetic Opioids
Many opioids are classified as semisynthetic, meaning they are chemically derived from natural opiates but modified in a laboratory to enhance their properties. They are commonly used for pain management in medical settings because they are created to be more effective and longer-lasting than the natural version. They also have a high potential for misuse and addiction when they are consumed in a way that does not align with how a physician prescribes them.
Some of the more recognizable semisynthetics are oxycodone, hydrocodone, hydromorphone, and oxymorphone. These can be found in medications commonly used to treat severe pain, like OxyContin, Percocet, and Vicodin.
Testing for Semisynthetic Opioids
In the past, a 5-panel drug test has been seen as the gold standard to ensure employees in safety-sensitive positions are fit for duty. But as the prevalence of opioid use grows, we have adapted by providing employers with the 5-panel drug test plus semisynthetic opioids.
This test monitors for the same five illicit substances (Cannabinoid (THC), cocaine, opiates, Phencyclidine (PCP), and methamphetamines/amphetamines), with the addition of several semisynthetics.
The test samples, urine and oral fluid, are consistent with panel drug testing. The test types available (express test, express-to-lab test, and lab-based test) are also the same. Oral fluid testing sample method is currently only done as a lab-based test by CannAmm, based on lower reliability and accuracy in comparison to our standards. The main difference is that the substances tested additionally include hydrocodone, hydromorphone, oxycodone, and oxymorphone.?
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Benefits of Testing
The prevalence of semisynthetic opioid use is a growing concern for workplaces, especially for those with employees in safety-sensitive positions. These substances can negatively impact the overall safety, health, and wellness of employees, and even the organization’s productivity. Maintaining the safety of your workplace and your team is the biggest advantage you’ll receive from incorporating testing for semisynthetics.
There are many side effects of taking opioids that could be detrimental to a safe workplace. Often, opioids can impair reaction time, which can lead to dangerous mistakes in positions that require attention to detail and focus. It’s important to be aware of what these signs are and how they present themselves on the job site. This includes:?
Overall, incorporating semisynthetic opioid testing will benefit both employees and employers. On top of a safe workplace, increased productivity, legal compliance, and positive work culture, another benefit is acceptance in both the Canadian Model 6.1 and US DOT.
Essentially, CannAmm’s 5-panel with semisynthetic opioids is more inclusive compared to the traditional panel test and is now viewed as the gold standard. If you’re interested in learning more about our different testing options and how they can be implemented in your organization’s drug and alcohol testing policy, connect with one of our CannAmm team members. Our experts would be happy to go through the advantages and any additional points about semisynthetic opioids. Contact us today !