Mark Halsey is a licensed therapist, founder, and chief editor of Clean Break Recovery. With over a decade of addiction treatment experience, Mark deeply understands...Read more
Drug testing is becoming a more and more common practice in the workplace, with many employers requiring their employees to undergo random drug tests. But what drugs are actually being tested for? This article will explore the types of drugs that are generally tested for during random drug tests, as well as the implications for employers and employees who are subject to this testing.
Random drug tests typically test for drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, phencyclidine (PCP), and opioids (both heroin and prescription pain relievers). Some employers may also choose to test for alcohol. Drugs are typically screened through urine, blood, saliva, or hair follicle drug tests. Employers are required to use a certified laboratory for drug testing.
Contents
- Drugs Tested in Random Drug Testings
- Top 6 Frequently Asked Questions
- What Drugs Are Tested for in Random Drug Test?
- What Types of Tests Are Used for Drug Screening?
- What Types of Drugs Are Detected by Drug Tests?
- What Is the Purpose of Random Drug Tests?
- What Happens If an Employee Tests Positive for Drugs?
- Are Random Drug Tests Legal?
- Pharmacology Calcium Channel Blockers – Antihypertensive – for Registered Nurse RN & PN NCLEX
Drugs Tested in Random Drug Testings
Random drug testings are used to determine the presence of drug metabolites in an individual’s system. Testing for drugs is done through urine, saliva, sweat, hair, and blood samples. The types of drugs tested for in a random drug test vary depending on the individual’s occupation and the organization’s policies.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines are stimulants that are commonly abused. These drugs can be detected in a drug test for up to two days after use. Amphetamines that are tested for in a drug test include amphetamine, methamphetamine, MDMA (ecstasy), MDA (methamphetamine derivative), and MDEA (ecstasy derivative).
Amphetamine and methamphetamine are both central nervous system stimulants. They are often abused for their euphoric effects. MDMA (ecstasy) is a synthetic drug that produces feelings of increased energy and euphoria. MDA (methamphetamine derivative) and MDEA (ecstasy derivative) are derivatives of amphetamine and methamphetamine.
Cocaine
Cocaine is a stimulant drug that is commonly abused. It is detectable in a drug test up to two days after use. Cocaine is tested for in a drug test using a urine sample.
Cocaine produces feelings of increased energy and alertness. It is commonly abused for its euphoric effects. The drug has a high potential for abuse and can be very addictive.
Opiates
Opiates are drugs derived from the opium poppy. They are typically prescribed for pain relief, but they can also be abused for their euphoric effects. Opiates that are tested for in a drug test include heroin, codeine, morphine, hydrocodone, and oxycodone.
Heroin is a highly addictive opiate that is usually injected or smoked. Codeine is a milder opiate that is commonly used to treat pain and coughs. Morphine is a powerful pain reliever that can be habit-forming. Hydrocodone and oxycodone are synthetic opiates that are commonly abused for their euphoric effects.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are drugs that are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety and sleep disorders. These drugs can be detected in a drug test for up to two days after use. Benzodiazepines that are tested for in a drug test include diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), and temazepam (Restoril).
Diazepam (Valium) is a sedative that is used to treat anxiety and muscle spasms. Alprazolam (Xanax) is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. Lorazepam (Ativan) is used to treat anxiety and insomnia. Temazepam (Restoril) is used to treat insomnia.
Barbiturates
Barbiturates are drugs that are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety and sleep disorders. These drugs can be detected in a drug test for up to two days after use. Barbiturates that are tested for in a drug test include phenobarbital, amobarbital (Amytal), and secobarbital (Seconal).
Phenobarbital is a sedative that is used to treat anxiety and insomnia. Amobarbital (Amytal) is used to treat anxiety and insomnia. Secobarbital (Seconal) is used to treat anxiety and insomnia.
Marijuana
Marijuana is a psychoactive drug that is commonly abused for its euphoric effects. It is detectable in a drug test for up to one month after use. Marijuana is tested for in a drug test using a urine sample.
Marijuana produces feelings of relaxation and euphoria. It can be addictive and can have long-term effects on the body. The drug can impair judgment and can increase the risk of respiratory problems.
Top 6 Frequently Asked Questions
What Drugs Are Tested for in Random Drug Test?
Answer: Generally, random drug tests are conducted to detect the presence of five different classes of drugs: amphetamines, cocaine, marijuana, opiates and phencyclidine (PCP). In some cases, other substances such as alcohol and anabolic steroids may also be tested.
What Types of Tests Are Used for Drug Screening?
Answer: Drug screening tests are generally conducted using urine, saliva, hair, or blood samples. Urine tests are the most commonly used method, as they are less intrusive, less expensive and easier to administer. Saliva tests are typically used to detect recent drug use, while hair tests are used to detect longer-term drug use. Blood tests may also be used, but they are more expensive and require more specialized equipment.
What Types of Drugs Are Detected by Drug Tests?
Answer: Drug tests are designed to detect the presence of certain drugs or their metabolites in the body. The types of drugs detected by drug tests vary depending on the test and the type of sample being tested. Commonly tested drugs include marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opiates and PCP.
What Is the Purpose of Random Drug Tests?
Answer: Random drug tests are conducted to ensure that employees are not using or abusing drugs while at work. Random drug tests are also used to deter drug use in the workplace and to identify employees who may be at risk of developing a drug problem.
What Happens If an Employee Tests Positive for Drugs?
Answer: If an employee tests positive for drugs, the employer may take disciplinary action, including termination of employment. Depending on the workplace, an employee may be offered the opportunity to seek treatment or may be referred to a substance abuse program.
Are Random Drug Tests Legal?
Answer: Yes, random drug tests are legal in many countries, including the United States. Generally, employers must obtain the consent of the employee before conducting a drug test. Employers must also follow state and federal laws, which may include limits on when and how drug tests can be conducted.
Pharmacology Calcium Channel Blockers – Antihypertensive – for Registered Nurse RN & PN NCLEX
Random drug tests are an important part of maintaining a safe and productive workplace. Knowing which drugs are usually tested for in a random drug test can help employers make sure that the process is properly administered and that the results are accurate. While the drugs tested for in a random drug test may vary depending on the individual workplace, the most commonly tested drugs include marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, and opiates. Random drug tests are an essential tool in protecting the safety and productivity of a workplace and are an important part of maintaining a healthy and productive environment.
Mark Halsey is a licensed therapist, founder, and chief editor of Clean Break Recovery. With over a decade of addiction treatment experience, Mark deeply understands the complex needs of those struggling with addiction and utilizes a comprehensive and holistic approach to address them. He is well-versed in traditional and innovative therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-based interventions.
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