Could you fail a drugs test if you take Solpadol?

Question

I've got a drugs test shortly, but I'm on Solpadol for my back. Its legally prescribed. Will I get in trouble if I don't pass the test? Thanks.

Answer 1

It depends on the job you do and the requirements for the specific job.

Legally, you cannot get in trouble for taking a prescribed analgesic medication. However, there are some occupations where taking a paracetamol/codeine preparation may prevent your properly or safely performing your position.

An example is workers in health care facilities. Depending on where you are employed there is no legal problem with working on the medication, however, if a health care worker knows that they are mentally impaired then they are morally and ethically required to report the use of the medication, and avoid a risky situation.

If a doctor or nurse makes an error while at work the first thing they do is take a toxicology screen. They are not doing anything illegal but if they are impaired and know it, then it is malpractice.

Check with the personnel/human resources department where you work for any company policies on working in your position while taking prescription medications.

Also know that if stopped in a unsafe traffic situation, people have been charged with driving under the influence when taking over the counter cold medications, when the police felt it affected their driving