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Addiction to Drugs/Drug test questions

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Expert: - 2/7/2012


Question
I have read that some antibiotics will cause a false positive for Cocaine on a urine drug screen, particularly those in the amoxcillin family. Is this correct? Where can I find proof of this? I have a client who is taking Augmentin (amoxcillin derivative) and tested positive for cocaine.

Thanks so much!

Answer
Erica,
To the very best of my knowledge, amoxicillin or Augmentin will neither one cause a false positive reading for any drug, particularly cocaine. I could be wrong, but I'm pretty certain. The drugs that cause a false positive for cocaine are the drugs in the stimulant family, such as Sudafed and other decongestants, certain cold remedies containing pseudoephedrine. That's why the pharmacists are limited on how much they can sell now, because these are used to manufacture meth.
If you find out I'm wrong please let me know.

Addiction to Drugs

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Patricia M.

Expertise

I will attempt to answer any serious question on substance abuse, including alcohol, illegal drugs and/or prescription drugs.

Experience

As a nurse, I bring a strong background in pharmacology along with a working knowledge of the effects of addiction. I am a believer in 12-step programs, and also medication-controlled programs for certain addictions.

Education/Credentials
Nursing school with diploma. 20-plus years nursing in general hospitals, med/surg and in later years employed by psychologists who also handled substance abuse problems. I am up-to-date with current treatment options, including medically-supervised programs and 12-steps.

Awards and Honors
Dean's List while in college. I have taken extra pharmacology courses because I enjoy it, and out necessity to stay up-to-date.

Past/Present Clients
I volunteer here on AllExperts in the Pharmacology area and also Medical area, in attempt to offer the questioners a "nurse's perspective", where I've received many and varied questions and problems, including some relating to addictions.

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