Addiction to Drugs/Drug test

Advertisement


Question
I'm not addicted to drugs... I just need help finding out how to get drugs out of my system really fast.. I only smoke weed maybe once a week, sometimes less than that. My last time smoking was on Friday and I took Ambien on Saturday. My mom just told me I need to go to the doctor and have a drug test done and it'll happen in just a few days. I need to get Ambien and thc out of my system. What can I do to pass the test?

Answer
Kallie,
Unfortunately, body size, type or the amount of water a person drinks does not determine when a substance will be out of your system. There are many products out there that proclaim to "clean your system" but they are not very effective.
All drug screens have cut off levels for detecting a substance,and contain panels specific to each drug they are testing for. Ambien is not a drug usually included in a standard 5 or 10 panel drug test. Marijuana will be. If the amount of THC in your system is lower than the cut off level you will test negative. However, those levels are set very low as a general rule.
Generally speaking, marijuana takes approx. 4-6 weeks to leave the system, there is no way to speed up this process.
If I could also caution you about Ambien, it is a very dangerous and addictive drug. If you are getting this medication from your doctor, I would suggest you ask for something safer.
I hope this is helpful to you.
Sherrie

Addiction to Drugs

All Answers


Answers by Expert:


Ask Experts

Volunteer


Sherrie Sweet

Expertise

I am qualified to answer questions in all areas of addiction and recovery. If you have a question that I can not answer, I am not afraid to tell you that I do not know, however, I am willing to help you find the answer. I am qualified to assist you with questions asked by the individual who is using drugs or alcohol, as well as questions from concerned friends and family members. I understand the stigmas of this disease and the difficult issues that arise from substance use. I am here to offer guidance and support.

Experience

I have worked in the field of substance abuse for 20 years. I have experience working in the areas of inpatient detoxification, outpatient counseling, halfway houses, self help groups, individual, marital and family counseling, drunken driving education, pregnant and parenting programs, and medication assisted treatment. Additionally, I have a strong background in medical issues, psychopharmacology and mental health issues. I believe in individualized treatment which meets the specific needs of each person suffering from the disease of addiction.

Education/Credentials
I currently hold a Masters Degree in Human Services/Psychology. I am also continuing with a PhD in Counseling Psychology. I am internationally certified as an Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor, and licensed as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I am additionally pursuing the credential of a Substance Abuse Professional which will allow me to work with and evaluate individuals who are employed within the D.O.T. system. Lastly, I am a partner in private practice working with individuals who are seeking recovery from addictive disorders.

Past/Present Clients
I have extensive experience working with individuals from all walks of life. I have worked with professionals, community leaders, NFL players, police officers, lawyers, nurses, homeless individuals, the indigent, doctors, and attorneys.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.