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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
Whether you're a student, athlete, or starting employment at a new company, you're likely to be drug tested at some point in your life. But everyone who is drug tested should be aware that some other substances can affect the test, creating a chance of inaccurate results. In fact, there is a 5% to 10% chance that your test results yield a false-positive. Conversely, there's a 10% to 15% chance that you'll receive a false-negative result.While drug test results are typically accurate, anyone taking a drug test should be aware of variables that could interfere with your test results.1. AntidepressantsPeople who suffer from depression should know that there's a slight chance your pre-employment drug test could come back positive if you take antidepressants. The chemical structure of antidepressants can sometimes mimic that of other drugs. Wellbutrin, Prozac, and Desryel can show up as amphetamines for your drug test, while Zoloft is liable to appear as a benzodiazepine. In this situation, the best thing you can do is let your technician know which antidepressants you're taking. To be safe, double-check that your antidepressant use is on your record, and bring your prescription bottle. Many people are concerned or self-conscious about disclosing their antidepressant use and mental health status, but it's better to stay on the safe side. Plus, your drug test technician isn't legally allowed to share your medical information with your employer.2. Cough Suppressants and Sleep AidsIf you're suffering from a runny nose or cough, you might want to hold off on taking any cough suppressants before your drug test. Cough suppressants, also known as antihistamines, contain ingredients that could cause a false positive.People who have taken cough suppressants containing the sleep aid diphenhydramine, such as Benadryl, might be at risk of testing positive for methadone or PCP. There is also a stronger counterpart of diphenhydramine called doxylamine, which is the active ingredient in Unisom. Like diphenhydramine, taking doxylamine before your test could also lead to a false positive for methadone.3. Diet PillsIf you're on a weight loss journey, be aware that prescription weight loss pills can cause a false positive. Adipex is a weight loss drug that is typical prescribed to patients for 6 to 12 weeks to suppress their appetite. The active ingredient in Adipex is phentermine, which mimics the chemical compounds in ADHD medications like Adderall.If you're taking diet pills and don't have a prescription for an amphetamine-based medication, let your health care provider know before proceeding with the drug test.4. Pre-Workout SupplementsMany people who work out regularly boost their performance with legal pre-workout supplements. These pre-workout supplements come in the form of powder, gummies, and pre-made sports drinks. While these supplements are generally safe to consume, users should remember that the FDA does not regulate supplements. And some pre-workout supplements contain active ingredients that can show up on drug tests as stimulants like amphetamines or methylhexaneamine.If you're taking pre-workout supplements and know you have a drug test coming up, avoid a false positive by double-checking that
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