During your DOT urine collection certification, you’ll learn that urine drug tests can sometimes yield false positives, even when the donor isn’t using illicit drugs. This can occur due to the presence of certain prescription medications that mimic the presence of illegal substances in the test results. For example, dextromethorphan, found in cough medicines, can show up as PCP, while diphenhydramine, an ingredient in antihistamines, may appear as an opioid. Pseudoephedrine, used in nasal decongestants, can test positive for amphetamines or methamphetamine, and phentermine, an appetite suppressant, can also result in a positive test for amphetamines. Quetiapine, which treats schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, may test as an opioid. Proton pump inhibitors, which reduce stomach acid, can appear as THC, and promethazine, used for insomnia and allergies, may test as amphetamine or methamphetamine. NSAIDs like aspirin and ibuprofen can test as THC or barbiturates. Quinolone antibiotics may show up as amphetamines, methamphetamine, or opioids. Venlafaxine and desvenlafaxine, both antidepressants, can appear as PCP, while sertraline may test as a benzodiazepine or LSD. Trazodone, for depression and insomnia, can result in a positive test for amphetamines or methamphetamines, and bupropion, used for depression and smoking cessation, may also appear as amphetamines or methamphetamines. Understanding these potential cross-reactions is crucial for accurate interpretation of urine drug tests.
source: https://teamcme.com/why-positive-drug-tests-arent-always-the-end-of-the-road/
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