Testosterone is a naturally occurring hormone in your body. There are also synthetic forms of testosterone, called anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). These synthetic hormones mimic the effects of testosterone; some men also explore options like testosterone supplements. They have some legitimate medical uses, but they’re also misused, especially by athletes.
In the United States, AAS are considered Schedule III controlled substances.
So, does testosterone show up in a 10 panel drug test? The short answer is that standard drug tests don’t usually test for anabolic steroids. However, there are specialized tests that can detect testosterone and other related substances.
In this article, we’ll look at how drug tests detect testosterone and related substances, the factors that affect whether or not they’re detected, and the legal implications of using AAS.
Understanding Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids (AAS)
Let’s get familiar with anabolic-androgenic steroids, or AAS, and how they’re related to testosterone.
What are Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids?
AAS are basically lab-made versions of testosterone. They’re designed to boost muscle growth (that’s the “anabolic” part) and ramp up male characteristics (that’s the “androgenic” part).
Now, AAS do have legit medical uses. Doctors sometimes prescribe them to treat hormone deficiencies or help folks dealing with muscle-wasting diseases. But, you know, some people use them without a prescription to try and get bigger muscles or boost their athletic performance.
Legal Status and Prevalence of AAS
Here’s the deal: AAS aren’t exactly legal for everyone. In the U.S., they’re classified as Schedule III controlled substances. That means they have some accepted medical uses, but also a potential for abuse. Similarly, in the UK, they’re regulated as Class C substances.
So, how many people are using these things? Well, estimates say there are somewhere between 2.9 and 4 million users aged 13 to 50 in the US. And get this: around a million of those folks are thought to be pretty heavily dependent on them.
Standard Drug Tests vs. Steroid Testing
A standard 10-panel drug test is designed to detect the presence of drugs like opioids, cocaine, amphetamines, PCP, and marijuana. These tests are common in workplaces, sports, and legal settings.
However, standard drug tests do not detect anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), including synthetic testosterone. These substances require specialized testing to identify. The reason is that the standard tests look for specific metabolites of the drugs they target. AAS and their metabolites require a different testing approach.
Specific steroid testing panels are designed to detect AAS and other performance-enhancing drugs. These panels often involve more sophisticated analytical techniques like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to accurately identify these substances.
How Steroids are Detected: Testing Methods
If an employer, sports organization, or legal authority suspects someone is using steroids, they’ll likely use one of the testing methods below.
Urine Testing
Urine testing is one of the most common ways to test for anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). It’s relatively easy to collect a urine sample.
Steroids can be detected in urine for up to 28 days in some cases. However, the detection window varies considerably based on:
- the type of steroid (oral vs. injectable)
- the dosage
- how it was administered
- individual factors
Blood Testing
Blood testing can provide more accurate results than urine testing. Steroids are generally detectable in the blood for up to 14 days.
Other Testing Methods
Here are some other testing methods that may be used, though they are less common:
- Hair follicle testing: Can detect steroid use for up to 12 months, depending on the length of the hair.
- Fingernail testing: Can detect steroid use for approximately 3 to 8 months.
- Saliva testing: Can detect steroid use for up to 24 hours.
Advanced Detection Methods
Labs may use a method called Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (IRMS) to distinguish between naturally produced testosterone and synthetic testosterone.
Factors Influencing Detection Time
If a drug test is designed to detect synthetic testosterone, the detection window varies wildly depending on several factors:
- Type of steroid (oral vs. injectable): Oral steroids enter and leave your system faster than injectable steroids, which are designed to release slowly over time. The specific steroid used also matters.
- Dosage and frequency of use: Higher doses and more frequent use create a larger reservoir of the substance in your body, extending the time it takes to clear.
- Individual metabolism and body composition: Everyone processes substances at different rates depending on their metabolism and body composition. Body mass, in particular, can influence detection times.
- Method of consumption: How the substance is consumed also matters.
Detection Windows for Specific Steroids
If you’re concerned about steroid detection, it’s helpful to know how long different substances can be detected in your system. Keep in mind that these are estimates, and individual factors can influence these windows.
Here’s a rundown of detection windows for some common steroids:
- Anadrol (Oxymetholone): Up to 2 months
- Anavar (Oxandrolone): Up to 3 weeks
- Dianabol (Methandrostenolone): Up to 6 weeks
- Deca-Durabolin (Nandrolone Decanoate): Up to 18 months (yikes!)
- Trenbolone Acetate: Up to 5 months
- Winstrol (Stanozolol): Up to 2 months (oral), Up to 2 months (injectable)
- Primobolan (Methenolone): Up to 5 weeks
- Testosterone Enanthate: Up to 3 months
Remember that these are just averages. Factors like dosage, metabolism, and the specific testing method used can all affect how long a steroid remains detectable.
Legal and Other Implications if a Steroid Test Comes Back Positive
A positive steroid test can have serious consequences, both legally and otherwise:
- Legal Repercussions: In the UK, steroids are considered Class C substances under the Misuse of Drugs Act of 1971. Illegally possessing, producing, or distributing them can lead to imprisonment and/or fines.
- Sports: A positive test will likely result in disqualification.
- Employment: Depending on your profession, using steroids could cause employment problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does testosterone show up on a drug test?
Generally, a standard 10-panel drug test doesn’t screen for testosterone or other anabolic steroids. These tests typically focus on detecting illicit drugs like marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP. However, specific athletic or employment-related tests may include steroid screening.
What does a 20-panel drug test test for?
A 20-panel drug test typically screens for a wider range of substances than a 10-panel test. This can include prescription medications like benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and opioids (beyond the usual suspects), as well as synthetic cannabinoids and other designer drugs. If you’re concerned about a specific substance, it’s best to confirm with the testing provider.
What can throw off a testosterone test?
Several factors can influence testosterone levels, leading to inaccurate results. These include certain medications (like opioids and steroids), medical conditions (such as thyroid disorders or pituitary issues), age, time of day (testosterone is highest in the morning), and even stress levels. Always inform your doctor about any medications or health conditions before a testosterone test.
What should I avoid before a 10-panel drug test?
To ensure accurate results on a 10-panel drug test, avoid using any illicit drugs or unauthorized prescription medications. Also, be aware of over-the-counter medications that might contain substances detectable by the test (e.g., some decongestants containing pseudoephedrine). It’s always best to disclose any medications you’re taking to the testing administrator.
What drugs mess with testosterone?
Several drugs can interfere with testosterone production or metabolism. Opioids, anabolic steroids, glucocorticoids (like prednisone), and some antifungal medications can lower testosterone levels. Conversely, certain medications used to treat prostate enlargement can increase testosterone. Always consult with a healthcare provider about potential drug interactions.
Final Thoughts
So, will testosterone or other anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) show up on a standard 10-panel drug test? The short answer is usually no. Most standard drug tests aren’t designed to detect these substances.
If someone wants to know if you’re using steroids, they’ll need to order a specialized test. And even then, how long the steroids remain detectable depends on the specific steroid, the dosage, and your body’s metabolism.
Keep in mind that using AAS can carry significant consequences. A positive steroid test can lead to disqualification from sports, and depending on where you live and your profession, it could even have legal or employment repercussions. It’s important to be aware of the rules and regulations surrounding steroid use in your particular situation.