You’re all set to join your new organization, just a few more onboarding steps, and everything is sorted. And wait, a false positive on your drug test and everything turned upside down. How is this possible? Can anyone get a false positive? It is not that common to get a false positive, but wait, it’s not impossible as well. So what’s the Best Defense for a positive drug test?
Many organizations consider drug testing their employees before they join them as a part of the verification process. Whereas some actually conduct it post their joining as well. This is actually a very important step considering the safety and security of the organization values and protocols.
However, due to some error, it is possible that an employee failed a drug test but didn’t do drugs. What can you do then? Is there any possibility of turning things around? Well, yes! There are a few ways through which you can dispute a false positive drug test. In this article, we’ll discuss the same.
Causes of a false positive drug test
Often, consumption of other particular substances like poppy seeds, Vitamin B supplements, mouthwash, hand sanitizer, etc. can result in a false positive.
Similarly, the test might show a positive result due to the consumption of antidepressants, antibiotics, sleep medications, and more.
These things can act as barriers to a successful hiring process. Hence, it is important to take action if you feel that it is a false positive.
Best defense for positive drug test
Keep everyone updated about the possibility
Document regular consumption of any of the above mentioned medicines before taking the test. It is also better to show the prescription of a doctor. Keeping everyone alert about the result possibility before taking the test adds to the genuineness.
If possible, take the test again
Chances are that you might have to provide strong reasons as to why you think the results of the first test are a false positive to get a retest allowed.
But if you can, you will get a chance to prove your point with a confirmed result. There is a good chance that it will show the correct result in the next test and your job will be safe.
Confirm it with a doctor
Often you might not realize the reason behind the result. In order to confirm better, go to a doctor. They might figure out something you might have consumed recently to the drug test, which led to this result.
They can also explain the same to your employer in order to convince them that the results are not fair. Any of these measures can help you safeguard your job and prove yourself.
FAQ
What substances can cause a false positive drug test?
Foods that cause false positive drug test:
- Poppy Seeds
- Weight loss pills
- Mouthwash
- Vitamin B supplements
- Antidepressants
- Sleep medications
- Hand sanitizer
- Coca Tea
What are the chances of a false positive drug test?
As per studies, there are 5% – 10% chances of a false positive drug test and a 10% – 15% false negative drug test.
What medication can give a positive drug test?
More supplements that show up on drug tests:
- Dextromethorphan (Robitussin, Delsym) (Present in OTC cough syrups, etc)
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) (Present in some allergy medications, etc)
- Certain decongestants (Used for Sinus and Nasal Congestions, etc)
- Phentermine (Weight loss pills, etc)
- NSAIDs (used to treat fever, inflammation, and pain)
- Antidepressants
- Sleep Medications
- Weight loss pills
Can ibuprofen cause false positives on drug tests?
Yes, ibuprofen can cause false positives on drug tests. People who consume within the range of 800-1200 milligrams per day.
