Can Medications Cause a False Positive Drug Test?

In a world where drug testing is a common practice, especially for safety-sensitive job roles governed by the Department of Transportation (DOT), the risk of false positive results poses a significant threat to one’s career and reputation. From truck drivers to flight attendants, individuals need to be aware of the unexpected medications that could potentially lead to a false positive drug test. Here, we delve into the intricacies of drug testing, explore common substances that trigger false positives, and offer guidance on what to do if faced with such a situation.

Understanding Drug Tests

The following types of drug tests are commonly employed, and chances are that if you are being tested, it is through one of these methods:

• The 5 Panel Drug Test: This standard screening tool detects the presence of five commonly abused substances: Marijuana (THC), Cocaine, Amphetamines, Opiates, and Phencyclidine (PCP). Widely used in the workplace, the 5 Panel Drug Test is cost-effective and provides rapid results, making it a preferred choice for pre-employment and random testing.
• The 10 Panel Drug Test: Expanding on the 5 Panel, this test covers a broader spectrum of illicit drugs, including Barbiturates, Benzodiazepines, and Methadone. It is commonly utilized in law enforcement, rehabilitation, and occupational medicine settings and offers a more comprehensive substance use assessment.
• Urine Drug Testing: The most common method due to its non-invasive nature, the Urine Drug Test detects recent substance use. It is widely employed for pre-employment, post-accident, and random testing scenarios.
• Saliva Drug Testing: Known for its convenience and immediate results, the Saliva Drug Test is ideal for detecting recent drug use, making it suitable for on-site testing after accidents or reasonable suspicion scenarios.
• Blood Drug Testing: While the most accurate, Blood Drug Tests are invasive and reserved for situations requiring precise results, such as legal cases or serious workplace incidents.
• Hair Follicle Drug Testing: Offering a unique three-month overview of an individual’s substance use history, the Hair Follicle Drug Test stands out for its long detection period.

Surprising Medications That Can Cause a False Positive Drug Test

The following common medications may lead to false positive drug test results:

• Dextromethorphan (Robitussin DM, Delsym): Used in cough suppressants, dextromethorphan can yield a false positive for PCP.
• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl, ZzzQuil): This antihistamine may trigger false positives for opioids and opiates, with rare cases of PCP positives.
• Decongestants (Pseudoephedrine, Sudafed, Nexafed): Pseudoephedrine, commonly used for sinus congestion, may result in false positives for amphetamine or methamphetamine.
• Phentermine (Adipex-P, Lomaira): Used for weight loss, phentermine can lead to false positive results for amphetamines.
• NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Advil, Motrin, Aleve): Common pain relievers like ibuprofen can cause false positives for barbiturates or THC.
• Antidepressants (Bupropion, Trazodone, Prozac, Zoloft): Several antidepressants may produce false positives, including hallucinogens and benzodiazepines.
• Quetiapine (Seroquel): This antipsychotic may result in a positive test for opioids, specifically methadone.
• Proton Pump Inhibitors (Omeprazole, Esomeprazole, Prilosec, Nexium): Used for GERD treatment, PPIs may yield false positive results for THC.
• Quinolone Antibiotics (Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin, Cipro, Ofloxacin): Certain quinolone antibiotics may trigger false positives for opiates or amphetamine/methamphetamine.
• Promethazine (Phenergan, Promethegan): Used for nausea and vomiting, promethazine can cause false positives for amphetamine or methamphetamine.

Addressing False Positives: What to Do Next

If you are reeling from a false positive drug test result, stay calm. The following first steps will be crucial to preserving your rights and reputation.

• Stay Calm and Seek Clarification: If possible, request detailed information about the test results and the substances for which you tested positive.
• Review Your Medications and Supplements: Compile a list of all recent medications, over-the-counter drugs, and dietary supplements that could have affected the test results.
• Inform Your Employer: Immediately communicate with your employer or designated union/HR representative. Disclose any medications or substances that may have influenced the test results.
• Request a Re-Test: Ask for a second test with a fresh sample, preferably at a certified testing facility.
• Consult the Medical Review Officer (MRO): Speak with the MRO assigned to your case, a licensed physician responsible for analyzing drug test results.
• Seek Legal Advice: Seek legal counsel, especially if you suspect that testing procedures were not followed correctly or if you think your rights have been violated.
• Gather Documentation: Collect relevant documentation, such as medical records or prescriptions, supporting your case against the false positive result.
• Consider SAP Evaluation: If required by your employer, undergo an evaluation by a qualified Substance Abuse Professional as part of the Return-to-Duty process.
• Stay Informed: Understand your rights as an employee, including the confidentiality of drug test results and the right to fair treatment throughout the process.

Reach Out to a Skilled Attorney for Help

Navigating the complexities of drug testing requires awareness of not only common substances but also the unexpected medications that may lead to false positives. By staying informed, following proper protocols, and seeking guidance when needed, individuals can protect their careers and maintain their professional standing in the face of a challenging situation. Reach out to a skilled criminal defense lawyer in Raton Rouge today for help.