Do Pre Employment Drug Tests Test for Benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines are a powerful class of drugs that are used to treat a variety of issues ranging from anxiety to insomnia. With their wide usage comes the question: do pre-employment drug tests test for benzodiazepines? This is an important question for employers to consider, as their drug testing policies can have a huge impact on the safety and well-being of their workplace. In this article, we will explore this question and discuss the implications of pre-employment drug tests testing for benzodiazepines.

Do Pre-Employment Drug Tests Include Benzodiazepines?

Pre-employment drug tests are commonplace in many industries and used to detect the presence of illegal substances in new hires. These tests often check for recreational drugs like marijuana, cocaine, and opioids, but some companies may also look for benzodiazepines, a type of medication used to treat anxiety, panic, insomnia, and seizures. But, do pre-employment drug tests test for benzodiazepines?

The answer is, it depends. Generally, drug tests don’t typically screen for benzodiazepines, as they are usually prescribed by a medical professional and are not considered to be a drug of abuse. However, some employers may choose to include benzodiazepines in their drug tests, and employers have the right to reject applicants who test positive for benzodiazepines, even if they have a valid prescription.

Employers may also choose to include benzodiazepines in their drug tests if they suspect that an employee is using them in an unsafe manner, such as taking more than the prescribed amount or using them to self-medicate. In this case, employers may choose to test for benzodiazepines to ensure that employees are not using these drugs without a valid prescription.

What Are Benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines, also known as tranquilizers, are a type of medication used to treat anxiety, panic, insomnia, and seizures. Commonly prescribed benzodiazepines include Valium, Xanax, and Klonopin. Benzodiazepines work by increasing the activity of a neurotransmitter called GABA, which helps to reduce anxiety and tension.

Benzodiazepines are usually prescribed by a medical professional to treat specific conditions, and are not considered to be a drug of abuse. However, benzodiazepines can be addictive, and it is important to take them only as prescribed by a doctor.

Are Benzodiazepines Detected on Pre-Employment Drug Tests?

Generally, drug tests do not screen for benzodiazepines, as they are usually prescribed by a medical professional and are not considered to be a drug of abuse. However, some employers may choose to include benzodiazepines in their drug tests, and employers have the right to reject applicants who test positive for benzodiazepines, even if they have a valid prescription.

Employers may also choose to include benzodiazepines in their drug tests if they suspect that an employee is using them in an unsafe manner, such as taking more than the prescribed amount or using them to self-medicate. In this case, employers may choose to test for benzodiazepines to ensure that employees are not using these drugs without a valid prescription.

What Should I Do If I Test Positive for Benzodiazepines?

If you test positive for benzodiazepines on a pre-employment drug test, it is important to talk to the employer about the results. If you have a valid prescription for the drug, you should provide a copy of the prescription to the employer to prove that you are taking the medication as prescribed.

If you do not have a valid prescription, it is important to be honest with the employer and explain why you tested positive. Depending on the employer’s policy, you may be disqualified from employment or given a warning.

Side Effects of Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines can be effective in treating anxiety, panic, insomnia, and seizures, but like all medications, they can also cause side effects. Common side effects of benzodiazepines include drowsiness, confusion, and impaired coordination.

In some cases, benzodiazepines can cause more serious side effects, such as depression, memory loss, and addiction. It is important to talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of taking benzodiazepines before starting the medication.

Are Benzodiazepines Safe to Use?

Benzodiazepines can be effective in treating anxiety, panic, insomnia, and seizures, but like all medications, they can also cause side effects. It is important to talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of taking benzodiazepines before starting the medication.

Additionally, it is important to take benzodiazepines only as prescribed by a doctor and not to take more than the recommended dose. Taking more than the recommended dose can increase the risk of side effects and addiction.

What Are the Alternatives to Benzodiazepines?

There are many alternatives to benzodiazepines that can be used to treat anxiety, panic, insomnia, and seizures. These include psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and exercise. Additionally, some herbal remedies, such as valerian root, chamomile, and passionflower, may be helpful in treating anxiety and insomnia.

It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any herbal remedies, as they can interact with medications and cause side effects. Additionally, some herbal remedies may not be safe for people with certain medical conditions.

Top 6 Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are Benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines are a group of drugs that are commonly used to treat a variety of conditions, such as anxiety, insomnia and seizures. They work by slowing down the central nervous system, leading to a calming effect. Benzodiazepines are typically prescribed by doctors, although they are sometimes abused. Common benzodiazepines include Xanax, Valium and Ativan.

2. Do Pre Employment Drug Tests Test for Benzodiazepines?

Yes, pre-employment drug tests can test for benzodiazepines. Most employers use a five-panel drug test to evaluate potential employees, which includes a test for benzodiazepines. This test looks for traces of benzodiazepines in the body, so if an applicant has recently taken a benzodiazepine, it may show up in the test results.

3. What Type of Sample is Used for Pre Employment Drug Tests?

Most pre-employment drug tests use a urine sample. The applicant is asked to provide a urine sample, which is then tested for the presence of drugs. The sample is analyzed for a variety of drugs, including benzodiazepines. It is important to note that the sample must be collected in a secure and hygienic manner to ensure accuracy.

4. What Does a Positive Result Mean?

If an applicant tests positive for benzodiazepines in a pre-employment drug test, it means that traces of the drug were found in their system. This could indicate that the applicant has recently taken a benzodiazepine and may have a history of using the drug. Depending on the employer’s policy, a positive result may disqualify the applicant from the hiring process.

5. Are There Any False Positive Results?

Yes, false positive results are possible when testing for benzodiazepines. False positives can occur if an applicant has taken certain over-the-counter medications or supplements that contain trace amounts of benzodiazepines. It is important for employers to verify any positive results with additional testing before making a decision about an applicant.

6. Are Benzodiazepines Legal?

Yes, benzodiazepines are legal when prescribed by a doctor. However, they can be dangerous when abused, as they can lead to addiction, overdose and other serious health problems. It is important to use benzodiazepines only as directed by a doctor, and to never take more than the recommended dose.

Does Xanax Show Up On A Pre Employment Drug Test?

In conclusion, pre-employment drug tests are an important part of the hiring process and can help employers ensure they are employing individuals who are drug-free. While pre-employment drug tests do not currently test for benzodiazepines, employers may be able to request additional testing to detect the presence of benzodiazepines if they are concerned about the potential for drug use in the workplace. Ultimately, pre-employment drug tests are an important tool for employers and should be taken seriously.