Dextromethorphan (DXM) is an over-the-counter (OTC) cough suppressant commonly found in various cough and cold medications. Given its accessibility and the potential for misuse, many people have concerns about whether DXM will show up on a drug test. Here’s what you should know.
Will Dextromethorphan Show Up on a Drug Screen?
1. The Basics of DXM
Dextromethorphan is an active ingredient in many OTC cough remedies. In therapeutic doses, it’s effective in suppressing cough. However, at higher doses, DXM can produce euphoric effects, dissociative experiences, and even hallucinations. Because of this, there has been some concern about DXM abuse, particularly among teenagers.
2. Will DXM Trigger a Positive on a Standard Drug Test?
In short, DXM is not commonly tested for in standard drug panels, which typically screen for substances like marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and more. Therefore, therapeutic doses of DXM will generally not result in a positive drug test for most standard drug screens.
However, there’s a caveat. In very high doses, DXM might cause a false positive for opioids like PCP or opiates, but this is relatively rare. If this occurs, a confirmation test using a more specific method, like gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), can be conducted to differentiate between the substances and clear up any confusion.
3. Specific DXM Drug Tests
While standard drug tests don’t usually screen for DXM, it is possible to specifically test for it if there’s suspicion of abuse. Such tests aren’t routine and would be administered under special circumstances.
4. Reasons for False Positives
There are numerous substances and medications that can potentially interfere with drug tests and produce false positives. Always be forthcoming about any medications or supplements you are taking when undergoing a drug test to help mitigate any potential misunderstandings.
5. Recommendations
If you’re taking DXM as prescribed or as directed on the label, you typically don’t need to worry about it affecting a standard drug test. However, if you have concerns or are subject to regular drug testing, it’s a good idea to:
- Inform the test administrator about any OTC or prescription medications you’re taking.
- Keep the original packaging or a copy of the prescription to show, if necessary.
- If you receive a false positive, request a confirmation test.
Conclusion
Dextromethorphan, when taken as directed, is unlikely to cause issues with standard drug screens. However, like any medication or substance, it’s crucial to use it responsibly and be aware of its potential effects. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have questions about DXM or any other medications.