Urine Drug Test - Its Uses, Types and Results

Creator: Dr. Antara Mukherjee
Published: 2023-03-14T17:30:07

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A urine drug test detects the presence of certain illegal and prescription drugs in the urine. The article explains the procedure in detail.

Written by

Dr. Antara Mukherjee

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Sugandh Garg

March 14, 2023

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Contents

What Are the Most Common Drugs That Are Detected in Urine Drug Tests?
What Is a Urine Drug Test Used For?
What Happens During a Urine Drug Test?
How Many Types of Urine Drug Tests Are There?
Are There Any Risks Involved With the Urine Drug Test?
What Facts Should One Know About the Urine Drug Test?

Introduction:

A urine drug test is carried out to detect drugs in a person's system. It is a widespread method of drug screening. The test is painless, easy, fast, and cost-effective. Doctors, sports personnel, and other employers require these tests regularly. After one takes drugs, the body flushes off the chemicals present in the drugs through urine, saliva, sweat, or blood. Traces of the drugs can be present in a person's system for a long time, even after the effect wears off. The urine drug test determines when the person took the drug.

What Are the Most Common Drugs That Are Detected in Urine Drug Tests?

The most common drugs that the urine drug test targets are -

Amphetamines.
Methamphetamines.
Benzodiazepines.
Barbiturates.
Marijuana.
Cocaine.
Phencyclidine (PCP).
Methadone.
Opioids (narcotics).
Alcohol.

What Is a Urine Drug Test Used For?

A urine drug test is used to find out whether one is misusing one or more drugs. It can be used for various purposes, such as:

Employment - Some employers might screen one for drugs before hiring. This is done to avoid hiring people who use illegal drugs. After hiring, the person might be checked for on-the-job drug use. In case of an accident at work, one can be tested to see whether the person was on drugs or alcohol. Drug use can lower productivity.
Workplace - Certain countries require workers to take regular drug tests throughout their tenure to ensure they do not consume illegal drugs after getting hired. Industries that conduct these tests include healthcare, transportation, government, automotive, manufacturing, and information technology.

A urine drug test can also be advised in case an employee shows specific symptoms suggesting the use of illegal drugs, such as,

Slurred speech.
Confusion.
Nausea.
Anxiety.
Paranoia.
Anger.

Sports - Sports professionals and other athletes are tested for drugs that improve their performance, such as steroids that help in muscle buildup.
Drug Treatment - Drug testing can also be used to keep a tab on the treatment programs for drug or alcohol use disorders.
Legal Evidence - Drug testing is part of a criminal or motor vehicle accident investigation. Drug testing can also be done as a part of a legal court case.
Misuse of Prescription Drugs - If the doctor prescribes a medication that can become addictive, such as an opioid for long-term pain. They can order a drug test to monitor whether the person is taking the medications correctly and not getting addicted.

What Happens During a Urine Drug Test?

The urine drug test can be taken at the office, a clinic, a laboratory, or any other site that can collect the urine sample.

A specimen-collecting sterile cup is given to the person undergoing the test.
The individual must leave all the belongings in another room after taking the test.
The genitals should be cleaned with a damp cloth provided by the technician.
The individual is advised to urinate into the provided cup. Around 45 mL (milliliter) of the urine sample should be provided.
Once finished, cover the cup with a lid, and it should be handed over to the technician.
The temperature of the sample is then measured to ensure it is within the correct range.
The result of the test takes around three to four days to come.

How Many Types of Urine Drug Tests Are There?

Urine drug tests are of two kinds. They are -

Immunoassay - This is a cost-effective test that gives quick results but has its drawbacks. It does not detect all types of opioids and can give false positive results.
Gas Chromatography or Mass Spectrometry (GC or MS) - This test is much more expensive than the immunoassay test and takes longer for the results to come. The results are rarely false positive. Both tests do not detect the presence of drugs used on the same day.

What Do the Results of Urine Drug Test Mean?

Immunoassays are the most common type of urine drug testing. It does not measure the drug directly but finds out how the drug interacts with the immune system and the ability to form the antigen-antibody complex. The test result is measured in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL).

1. A negative urine drug test result means -

The drugs tested were not detected in the sample.
Significantly fewer drugs detected in the test were not sufficient to give a positive test result.

2. A positive urine test result means -

One or more drugs have been detected in the urine, suggesting drug use.
Positive drug result requires follow-up as they can be wrong.

Are There Any Risks Involved With the Urine Drug Test?

A urine drug test does not involve any physical risk. However, if any drug is detected in the trial, it might affect one's career, the decision of a legal case, or any other part of one's life. Therefore, before taking the test, one should know why it is being done, what it is for, and how the test results will be used.

What Facts Should One Know About the Urine Drug Test?

If one tests positive for a legally prescribed drug in the urine drug test, the employer cannot take action against them unless the drug hinders their performance.

In case one is tested positive for Marijuana and lives in a place where it is legal, the employer can still take action against them, as many employers want to keep their workplace drug-free.

Home tests are also available for many illegal and prescription drugs.

The tests are of two types:

At-home Tests - This test is conducted at home to get quick results. If the test result is positive, one needs to undergo a follow-up lab test to check the correctness of the result. The at-home test includes a kit for sample collection to send to a laboratory in case of a positive outcome.
Self-conduction Test - This test uses a kit for collecting the sample to send to the laboratory for testing. Some of these tests include the cost of a second lab test to check the correctness of the result obtained from the previous test. One should carefully follow all the instructions while using the home tests.

Conclusion:

A urine drug test is a fruitful method of checking the presence of drugs and evaluating drug use in the workplace or in legal matters. Many laboratories provide urine drug testing. However, the test results could be falsely positive in some instances. In such a scenario, it is essential to take a re-test. The combined knowledge of the drugs detected and the test results analysis is necessary to gather the correct information from the urine test.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Substances Will Be Detected in a Urine Drug Test?

In a urine drug test, various substances can be detected, depending on the specific panel used. Commonly screened substances include marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, benzodiazepines, and phencyclidine (PCP). The test works by analyzing metabolites of these substances in the urine, which can provide information about recent drug use. The detection window varies based on the drug and individual factors, but it generally ranges from a few hours to several days after consumption.

2. What Is the Duration for a Urine Drug Test to Yield Results?

The duration of a urine drug test can depend on various factors. Usually, standard urine drug tests can provide results within one to three business days. However, the actual time frame can be influenced by the testing facility's workload, the type of drugs being screened, and the specific testing methods used. Some urgent situations may have expedited testing options that can provide results more quickly, but these are often reserved for special circumstances. It is essential to check with the testing facility or healthcare provider to get a more precise estimate of the result turnaround time.

3. Name Three Drugs That Can Be Identified in a Urine Test.

Three drugs identified in a urine test are marijuana (THC), cocaine, and opioids (such as Heroin, Oxycodone, or Morphine). These substances can be detected through their respective metabolites present in the urine. The urine test's sensitivity and the detection window may vary depending on the amount and frequency of drug use. Still, these drugs are commonly screened in standard urine drug tests used for various purposes, including employment screenings and medical evaluations.

4. What Is the Price of a Urine Drug Test?

The cost of a urine drug test depends on various factors, including the type of drugs being screened, the complexity of the test panel, the location of the testing facility, and any additional services required. It is important to check with the specific testing facility or healthcare provider to get an accurate cost estimate for the urine drug test a person requires.

5. How Many Different Drugs Can Be Detected in a Urine Test?

The number of drugs a urine test can detect depends on the specific testing panel used. Standard urine drug tests typically screen for common drugs, such as marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, and benzodiazepines. However, specialized or more comprehensive tests can include a broader range of substances. The testing facility or healthcare provider can provide information about the specific drugs included in the urine test panel and any additional options available for detection.

6. Is It Possible for a Urine Drug Screen to Produce Inaccurate Results?

Yes, a urine drug screen can produce inaccurate results in certain situations. Factors that may lead to false positives or false negatives include the use of certain medications, over-the-counter drugs, or herbal supplements that can interfere with the test. Additionally, errors in the testing process, handling, or labeling of the samples can also contribute to unreliable results. If someone believes their test outcome is incorrect, they may request a retest or further investigation to ensure accurate results are obtained.

7. Should One Fast Before Taking a Urine Test?

In general, fasting is not necessary for a standard urine test. However, specific tests or medical procedures may have unique requirements, and it is important to follow instructions provided by the doctor or testing facility. For routine urine tests, individuals can typically eat and drink normally before providing a urine sample. Drinking enough fluids ensures a sufficient urine volume for the test. Still, excessive fluid intake immediately before the test may dilute the sample and affect the test's accuracy.

8. How Can One Obtain a Urine Test?

A person can approach a healthcare provider or a testing facility to obtain a urine test. Depending on the reason for the test, it may be requested as part of a routine health check-up, pre-employment screening, or for medical purposes. The doctor will provide guidelines on how to collect the urine sample properly. In most cases, a person will be given a clean container to collect the midstream urine, which will then be sent to a laboratory for analysis.

9. What Precautions Should One Take Before Undergoing a Urine Test?

Before undergoing a urine test, there are some precautions a person should take to ensure accurate results. These may include avoiding certain medications, supplements, and foods that could interfere with the test. It is important to inform the doctor about any prescription or over-the-counter medications a person is taking, as well as any herbal supplements or vitamins. Additionally, a person may be advised to abstain from alcohol and certain foods to prevent potential interference with the test results. Following these guidelines will help ensure the urine test provides reliable and informative data for the healthcare evaluation.

10. Which Foods Should One Avoid Before a 24-Hour Urine Test?

For a 24-hour urine test, it is generally recommended to avoid specific foods and beverages that could affect the test results. These may include foods high in vitamin C, caffeine, and certain medications or supplements. Vitamin C-rich foods can alter the acidity of urine, while caffeine can increase urine production. Certain medications and supplements may also interfere with the test's accuracy.

11. Does Drinking a Large Amount of Water Impact the Results of a Urine Test?

Yes, drinking a large amount of water can affect the results of a urine test. If a person drinks excessive water just before providing the sample, the urine may dilute, leading to a lower concentration of drug metabolites. As a result, certain drugs may become more difficult to detect in the urine, possibly yielding a false-negative result. It is advisable to drink water in moderation and follow instructions provided by the doctor to obtain accurate and reliable urine test results.

12. Why Is a 24-Hour Urine Test Necessary?

A 24-hour urine test is required for various medical purposes to assess kidney function, detect certain metabolic disorders, and monitor specific bodily substances. Unlike a standard spot urine test, the 24-hour test provides a more comprehensive analysis of various substances excreted in the urine over a full day, allowing for a more accurate assessment of certain conditions. The test is essential for diagnosing kidney stones, kidney disease, and hormonal imbalances.

13. What Methods Are Used to Tamper With a Urine Drug Test?

Tampering with a drug test is illegal and dishonest, and it can have serious consequences, including legal penalties and damage to one's reputation. It is important to respect the integrity of drug tests and comply with testing protocols as employers, healthcare providers, or other organizations require. If a person has concerns or questions about drug testing, discussing them openly with the relevant parties and seeking appropriate guidance is best.

14. What Is the Acceptable Temperature Range for a Urine Drug Test?

The acceptable temperature range for a urine drug test is typically between 90°F to 100°F (32°C to 38°C). This temperature range is considered normal for fresh human urine and helps ensure the validity and accuracy of the test. If the urine sample falls outside this temperature range, it may be deemed suspicious, and further testing or retesting may be required to confirm the results. Maintaining the proper temperature during sample collection is essential to prevent potential tampering or substitution of the urine specimen.

15. How Long Does It Typically Take to Receive Results From a Urine Drug Test?

The time it takes to receive results from a urine drug test can vary depending on several factors. Standard urine drug tests can often provide results within one to three business days. However, more comprehensive tests or tests that need to be sent to a specialized laboratory may take longer, and results could be available within five to seven business days. Some urgent situations may have expedited testing options that can provide results more quickly. It is best to inquire with the testing facility or healthcare provider to get a more precise estimate of the result turnaround time for a specific urine drug test.

Sources

Dr. Sugandh Garg

Internal Medicine

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