Can Xanax show up in a 12-panel drug test?
The 12-panel drug test helps the employer/tester to identify many drug substances, including benzodiazepines. Xanax falls in the class of Benzos, and hence there is no doubt that a 12-panel or even a 10-panel drug test can trace Xanax easily. It may not be evident because Xanax has a low retention period in blood, urine, and saliva. Standard usage as per prescription might not create an obstacle in your drug test. But if you are abusing the drug, there are chances that you might test positive for Xanax.
This blog will help you to know more about Xanax, its effects, false-positive testing, how long Xanax can stay in your system, and how to pass your drug test if taking Xanax.
What is Xanax?
Xanax belongs to the class of benzodiazepines, which is used to treat anxiety, depression, and panic disorders. They act directly on the central nervous system and calm the nerves responsible for the above conditions. It may also be recommended for agoraphobia, stress, and Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS).
It is carefully prescribed as it may lead to dependence and addiction. Repeated usage without prescription might lead to paranoia, suicidal thoughts, lack of coordination, and other severe consequences. Combined use with other drugs like alcohol might lead to respiratory disorders and even death.
Effects of Xanax intake
The effects may differ from person to person based on the intake frequency, quantity, and other factors. But you may face some of these below-mentioned effects within an hour of taking Xanax.
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Sleepiness
- Drowsiness
These are very common for those who take Xanax as per prescription. But if you are exceeding your intake without prescription or unknowingly taking Xanax without knowing the intake levels, you may experience the below-mentioned side effects
- Hallucinations
- Problems in Memory
- Lack of coordination
- Seizures
- Poor reflex and response
- Reduced social engagement.
- Suicidal thoughts
It is time to meet your doctor if you experience the symptoms mentioned earlier. He may reduce or align your dosage and recommend the best detox program.
Who is at risk of taking Xanax?
People with the below-mentioned conditions might be careful and consult their doctor before taking Xanax.
- Substance Abuse Disorder
- People with liver damage
- People above 65 years of age.
- Pregnant ladies
- People taking other medications like valium or Klonopin.
Xanax Abuse Facts
- Nearly 40% of Americans who take Xanax become dependent on them.
- People with substance use disorders are highly prone to get addicted to Xanax and other benzos.
- Chronic Xanax users who take the drug via injection or snorting might suffer from respiratory distress and severe breathing problems that may lead to death.
How long can Xanax stay in your body?
It may depend on age, weight, sex, intake, frequency of intake, etc. The half-life of Xanax is eleven and a half hours for a healthy person. On average, Xanax can react within an hour and stay for about 24 to 36 hours in your body. The general period in which the drug remains in different samples are
Blood – 1 day
Saliva – 2 – 4 days
Urine – 5 to 7 days
Hair – up to 90 days
Can Xanax show up in a drug test?
Xanax might not show up in a standard drug testing panel like 5-panels, but if your employer prefers testing you for benzos by using a ten or 12-panel drug test, it might show up in your drug test result.
If you are using the drug as per your physician’s recommendations, you might pass your drug test as Xanax may not stay in your body for a longer time. If you are a regular user, either dependent or addicted, the drug traces may remain in your body for a long time that might show up in your drug test.
Chances of false-positive results
Drugs like Zoloft and Daypro might cross-react during your immunoassay urine drug test and show false-positive results for benzodiazepines like Xanax. You need to notify your tester about your drug prescription before the test. This might help them to screen for the drug properly. If you face your random drug test, it is better to let the employer know about your prescription drugs.
Final words
Xanax may show up in your 12-panel drug test based on certain factors. If you are taking Xanax as per prescription, take the necessary detox methods before your drug test. This could help you to pass your test. It would be best if you notify your Xanax intake to your employer as it could help him interpret the results during the random drug testing.
