When it comes to drug tests, there are many different scenarios and outcomes. A false-positive test result can have serious consequences and the implications of such a finding can be detrimental. It’s important to understand just what a false-positive drug test means so you know how to dispute it should one come up in your results.
What Does False Positive On a Drug Test Mean?
A false positive on a drug test simply means that the results of the test show that drugs were detected in your system when in fact, no drugs were taken. This type of outcome is most likely due to cross-reaction with other medications or substances found in your system which can trigger a drug test to return an inaccurate result. Some common substances that may cause this include medications for colds or allergies, poppy seeds, and even certain foods like energy drinks, vitamins, or even cough syrups. I bet, you would be surprised to know, what medications can cause a false positive or “can poppy seeds make you fail a drug test”.
What Medications Can Cause False Positive Drug Test Result?
There are several medications that can cause a false positive on a drug test. It can be both medications and food. Some pills can be bought even in a moll.
So, what can cause a false positive on a drug test? These include certain antibiotics such as:
- Ampicillin
- Certain cold medicines containing ephedrine
- Imipramine
- Codeine
- Ibuprofen;
- Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine;
- Amphetamines;
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs);
- Decongestants containing pseudoephedrine;
- Certain psychiatric medicines such as phenobarbital
- Some sleeping pills.
What food can imitate substances on the screening?
Sounds like a joke? We understand. But, for real, some ordinary meals and drinks can be shown on a urine drug test. Ordinary products among the list “what can cause a false positive drug test for thc”
- Poppy Seeds
- Energy drinks
- Cough syrups
- Vitamin B supplements
“Failed drug test but did not smoke”
Is it possible? Yep! A failed drug test can occur because of environmental factors such as spending time in an area where others may be smoking or having second-hand smoke exposure. Second-hand smoke exposure can cause the presence of THC metabolites in the body, which may lead to a false positive result on a drug test, even though the individual was not actually smoking themselves.
How To Dispute A Positive Drug Test Result?
If you find yourself facing a false positive drug test result then it is essential that you dispute it quickly in order to avoid serious repercussions from employers or probation officers if applicable. Also, you should be frank and think what happens if you fail a drug test, cause possibility is high.
Well, how to dispute a false positive drug test on probation? The best way to do this is by providing evidence showing what medications or supplements you had recently taken which could have caused the false positive. You may also need to provide additional information about any legal prescriptions you take or even dietary changes which could explain why the drug test came back positive for drugs when none were actually taken. Additionally, if necessary, you may be able to obtain additional laboratory testing which uses more accurate methods of detection in order to confirm the original results did not contain any illegal substances.
In some cases, those on probation may wish to dispute their own results in order to prove their innocence against accusations stemming from a faulty initial diagnosis. In these cases, it is often best practice to obtain legal counsel who specializes in defending those facing criminal charges related to drug use so that they can help build your case for disputing the initial findings. They will be able to provide guidance on what evidence needs to be presented and how best appeals should be pursued with local law enforcement agencies or courts depending on where you reside.
Summary
Facing a false-positive on a drug screening can have significant consequences but it is possible dispute them effectively with proper legal guidance and gathering pertinent information regarding prior medical care or dietary habits which could explain why the initial results showed up as they did initially. However, the best defense for positive drug test is not using substances or having real doc from doctor. In such case, you have good chance. Also, if you work in creative niche, you may just talk with your boss and explain that it was one-time weekend smoking. By understanding what causes these types of inaccuracies as well as knowing how best approach legal authorities regarding disputing them will allow you better protect your rights while ensuring accuracy during future screenings as well