Drug Testing in the Workplace: Could a Positive Test for One of the Mandated Drugs Be for Reasons Other Than Illicit Use of the Drug?

• NCJ Number: 162705
• Journal: Journal of Analytical Toxicology Volume: 19 Dated: (October 1995) Pages: 450-457
• Author(s): M A ElSohly; A B Jones
• Date Published: 1995
• Length: 8 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Technical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article reviews data from the scientific literature on drug testing in the workplace for different drug classes and circumstances other than abuse of the drug itself that could result in a positive test for marijuana, passive inhalation, unknowing oral ingestion, and the use of Marinol.

Abstract

Data are presented on the concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and its precursors, acid-A, and acid-B in marijuana and the extent of extraction of THC in boiled tea or cooked products. Passive inhalation and exposure issues are reviewed for cocaine, and poppy seed ingestion and guidelines for the exclusion of poppy seeds as a cause for a positive test are discussed for opiates. In the case of amphetamines, issues such as the presence of other phenethylamines and prescription drugs are considered. Although passive inhalation of methamphetamine and phencyclidine is theoretically possible, no data are available on these drugs. 9 references, 2 tables, and 2 figures