Prescription Medications and Drug Tests: How to Protect Yourself

At RISE (Refugee and Immigrant Self-Empowerment), we are committed to empowering refugee and immigrant communities in Onondaga County through education, employment, and economic self-sufficiency. An important aspect of this mission involves ensuring our community members are well-informed about their rights and responsibilities, particularly concerning workplace drug testing and the potential for false positives due to prescribed medications.

Understanding False Positives in Drug Tests

Drug tests are commonly used by employers to ensure workplace safety and compliance. However, certain prescribed medications can lead to false-positive results, where the test incorrectly indicates the presence of illicit substances. This can have serious implications for employment and personal reputation.(gcheck.com)

Medications Known to Cause False Positives

Several commonly prescribed and over-the-counter medications have been associated with false-positive drug test results:(pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

• Antidepressants: Certain antidepressants, such as sertraline (Zoloft), have been reported to cause false positives for benzodiazepines or LSD. (Verywell Mind)
• Antihistamines: Diphenhydramine, found in many allergy medications, can sometimes result in false positives for opioids or PCP.(livefreerecoverynh.com)
• Decongestants: Pseudoephedrine, a common decongestant, may lead to false positives for amphetamines.
• Pain Relievers: Ibuprofen and naproxen have been linked to false positives for cannabinoids and barbiturates.
• Cough Suppressants: Dextromethorphan, present in many cough syrups, can cause false positives for PCP.

It’s important to note that these false positives are due to the chemical structures of these medications, which may be similar to those of certain illicit drugs, leading to cross-reactivity in immunoassay screenings. (nida.nih.gov)

Steps to Protect Yourself

To minimize the risk of a false-positive drug test result, consider the following steps:

Before the Test

• Inform the Testing Facility: Provide a comprehensive list of all medications, supplements, and over-the-counter drugs you are taking to the testing administrator. This information can help interpret test results accurately.(palmettotesting.com)
• Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Discuss any concerns with your doctor or pharmacist. They can provide documentation or guidance on how your medications might affect drug testing.

After a Positive Test Result

• Request a Confirmatory Test: If you receive a positive result, ask for a confirmatory test, such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), which is more specific and can distinguish between substances. (uspharmacist.com)
• Provide Documentation: Submit any prescriptions or medical records that verify your legitimate use of the medication in question.(gcheck.com)
• Communicate with Your Employer: Engage in an open dialogue with your employer or the Medical Review Officer (MRO) overseeing the testing process to explain your situation and provide necessary documentation. (exactbackgroundchecks.com)

Know Your Rights

Understanding your legal rights can provide additional protection:(gcheck.com)

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Protects individuals with disabilities, including those taking prescribed medications for medical conditions, from discrimination in the workplace.(precisehire.com)
• Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA): Ensures the confidentiality of your medical information, including drug test results.(Verywell Mind)

If you believe your rights have been violated due to a false-positive drug test, consider seeking legal advice to explore your options.

Conclusion

False-positive drug test results can be a challenging and stressful experience, especially for individuals relying on prescribed medications. By proactively communicating with testing administrators, providing thorough documentation, and understanding your legal rights, you can navigate this process more effectively. At RISE, we are here to support our community members in understanding and exercising their rights to ensure fair and equitable treatment in all aspects of life, including employment.(gcheck.com)