Does Tramadol show up on a drug test in UK? What you need to know
Tramadol is a prescription painkiller used to treat moderate to moderately severe pain. While it is classified as a synthetic opioid, it behaves differently from traditional opiates like morphine or codeine, which affects whether or not it appears on a drug test.
So, will tramadol show up on a drug test? The answer depends on the type of test being used.
Will Tramadol show on a standard drug test?
Many standard drug screening panels—such as the common 5-panel or 10-panel drug tests—do not detect tramadol. These panels typically look for:
- Opiates (heroin, morphine, codeine)
- Cannabis (THC)
- Cocaine
- Amphetamines
- Benzodiazepines
Since tramadol is a synthetic opioid, it is not picked up by tests targeting natural opiates unless a specific screening for tramadol is included.
Which drug tests detect Tramadol?
Tramadol can be detected on extended drug testing panels or tests that are designed to detect synthetic opioids. These types of tests are often used in:
- Workplace drug testing
- Pain management clinics
- Drug rehabilitation programmes
- Legal or forensic toxicology testing
To find drug tests that detect tramadol, visit our full range of Tramadol Drug Test Kits.
How long does Tramadol stay in your system?
The detection window for tramadol depends on the type of test and individual factors like metabolism and dosage.
Detection time for Tramadol
- Urine Test-1 to 4 days
- Saliva Test-1-2 days
- Hair Follicle Test-Up to 90 days
- Blood Test-Up to 24 hours
Will Tramadol cause a false positive?
Tramadol is unlikely to cause a false positive for other substances on a drug test. However, if a test doesn't screen for tramadol specifically, it may not be detected at all. That’s why it's important to use a drug test kit that includes tramadol as part of its panel when required such as the ALLTEST 10 panel workplace split key urine drug test cup with Tramadol
Key points about Tramadol and drug testing in the UK
- Tramadol is not usually detected on all standard drug tests, however it is increasingly being included on many of the more comprehensive multi-panel urine drug test cups.
- It can be identified using specialised or extended panels that screen for synthetic opioids or by using a urine drug test strips for Tramadol.
- Always inform the drug testing provider if you're taking prescription tramadol.
- For drug tests that detect tramadol, browse our full range of Tramadol Drug Test Kits.
If you’re unsure which drug test kit is right for your needs, our dedicated customer support team at UK Drug Testing is happy to help. Get in touch for expert drug testing advice.