Imagine the disbelief and shock that come with receiving a positive result on a drug test, despite knowing you haven't used any prohibited substances. False positive drug test results can be not only puzzling but also distressing, throwing a curveball into the lives of individuals who suddenly find themselves in this unexpected scenario. Discover the reasons behind false positive drug test results – from harmless foods to common meds.
Some prescribed medicines, can cause a positive drug test result. These include prescriptions for diabetes, medicines that treat depression, analgesics, and other pharmaceuticals that can have an impact on the central nervous system.
Some over-the-counter medications can also cause a false red flag on the drug screen. These include cold and allergy medications, like those containing pseudoephedrine or ephedrine, which might trigger positive for amphetamines in drug tests.
If substances similar in structure to the targeted drugs are introduced into the sample through mishandling, improper cleaning of testing equipment, or environmental factors, they can trigger a positive result even if the individual hasn't used the targeted drug. Strict protocols and sanitation measures are essential to prevent it.
Poppy seeds can lead to opioid-related positives. These tiny black seeds naturally contain morphine and codeine. Eating a poppy seed bagel, for instance, could lead to positive tests for these opioids for around a day after consumption.
Read more: How Poppy Seeds Can Impact Drug Test
Understanding the reasons behind false positive drug test results is essential to ensure accurate assessments. Factors such as the chemical composition of certain over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and dietary additives can mimic banned substances or controlled drugs, leading to misleading outcomes. Vigilance in disclosing supplement usage to medical professionals or testing agencies, along with seeking expert advice before taking any supplements, will help mitigate the risk of false positives and ensure fair and accurate results.
goMDnow as a c/TPA works with SAMHSA-certified labs that are specifically designed to minimize the risk of false positives thus providing reliable, accurate, and error-free drug testing services to clients. Order a test online or sign up for the Random Testing Consortium.
