Does Benadryl Show Up on a Drug Test?

The Basics of Drug Testing: Does Benadryl Show Up?

Yes, Benadryl can be detected in drug tests, but this depends on the type of test, the amount consumed, and whether Benadryl is specifically included in the test panel. 

Drug testing is often mandatory for employment, athletics, or legal reasons. While it primarily targets illicit substances, it can also detect commonly used medications like Benadryl. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone taking Benadryl, as it allows for appropriate preparation and response to drug screening outcomes. This guide provides essential information on how Benadryl interacts with drug tests.

What Is Benadryl?

Benadryl is the brand name for an over-the-counter antihistamine medication containing diphenhydramine hydrochloride. It is widely available in various forms, such as liquids, tablets, and capsules.

This medication, which does not require a prescription, is primarily used to treat allergies by blocking histamine receptors in the brain. It also helps alleviate cold symptoms, coughing, and other conditions like bug bites, hives, skin irritations, and anxiety.

How Does Benadryl Affect Your Body?

Besides its primary use, Benadryl acts as a sedative, promoting drowsiness and relaxation, making it a helpful option for managing anxiety and as a sleep aid.

However, its sedative properties have led to misuse, mainly influenced by social media challenges that promote excessive consumption to experience euphoria or hallucinogenic effects similar to PCP. In response to these dangerous trends, the FDA has issued warnings about the risks of abusing Benadryl, noting severe consequences, especially among teenagers seeking these mind-altering effects.

Can Everyone Use Benadryl?

Benadryl has some potential side effects and should not be taken by everyone. Consult a doctor before taking Benadryl if you are currently taking other medications, suffer from certain medical conditions (such as glaucoma or an enlarged prostate), or have experienced any unusual reaction to this medication in the past.

What Are the Chances That Benadryl Will Show on a Drug Test?

Benadryl does not appear on all drug tests because it does not contain substances typically targeted in these screenings. However, its active ingredient, diphenhydramine, can sometimes cause false positives due to its slight chemical resemblance to methamphetamine. 

Specifically, Benadryl has been known to trigger false positives for methadone during initial urine screenings, like the dipstick test. If this happens, a subsequent confirmation test at a laboratory usually clarifies that the initial positive was a false alarm. While the type of drug test can influence these results, any positive findings are typically verified with additional testing, so initial discrepancies usually do not cause concern.

 

 

Who Has to Take Drug Tests?

Drug tests are often mandatory for certain individuals, such as those in the military or who hold safety-sensitive jobs. Drug screening may also be required for athletics and other performance-based activities. People on parole or probation or in certain rehabilitation programs may also be required to take scheduled drug tests.

Drug testing is not just limited to urine samples; depending on the targeted substances, these screenings can also include hair follicle testing, saliva testing, and blood sampling.

 

What to Do If You're Getting Tested While on Benadryl

Benadryl (diphenhydramine) typically remains in your system for about 24-48 hours, influenced by factors such as age, metabolism, organ function, and dosage. If you know about an upcoming drug test, the first step is to stop taking Benadryl to clear it from your system. 

Additionally, it's essential to inform the laboratory performing the test that you have been using this medication. This notification allows them to adjust their testing parameters, enhancing the accuracy of your drug test results. If you regularly use Benadryl but need to undergo a drug screening, consider switching to a different type of antihistamine that does not share similar properties with any substances commonly tested for in drug screens. 

What Happens If You Fail a Drug Screen?

Failing a drug test can have various consequences. For instance, you may face disciplinary action at work or have your parole or probation revoked. It is important to know your rights and understand the implications of any failed drug tests, especially if it is due to a false positive caused by taking Benadryl or other innocuous substances.

If you fail a drug screen, speak with the lab directly and explain any medications or supplements you are taking, along with your medical history. This is important to make sure there is no confusion and that the results of your test are accurate. If you've already failed a drug test due to Benadryl or other substances that can cause false positives, explain the situation and see if you can arrange to be re-tested.

What Else Can Cause False Positives?

In addition to Benadryl, many other substances can cause false positives in drug tests. Some of these include:

• Certain antibiotics, antidepressants, and antifungal medications, such as fluconazole and ketoconazole
• Cold and flu medications, such as Nyquil
• Specific types of supplements or vitamins, like Vitamin B12
• Inhalers and nasal sprays, such as Flonase
• Food ingredients like poppy seeds
• Products containing hemp or CBD oil

When in doubt, it is always best to disclose any medications or supplements you are taking before taking a drug test. If possible, you may also want to cease the use of any problematic substances before your test.

Get Ahead of False Positives with Countrywide Testing

If you're taking Benadryl and have questions about how it may interact with your upcoming drug test, consider taking an at-home test before any mandated screenings. This can help determine if your use of Benadryl or any other substance is likely to result in a positive test.

At Countrywide Testing, our reliable and accurate drug testing services can help you understand if any substances — from allergy medicines to foods, vitamins, or supplements — will cause any issues by showing up on your test. Forearmed with this knowledge, you can make necessary lifestyle changes or let your test administrator know about any potential complications. 

Countrywide is an online retailer providing you with easy access to standard drug tests. We offer an array of products for testing at home, individuals staying clean after rehab, workplace testing, healthcare emergencies, and law enforcement purposes. Our test kits are convenient, affordable, and ship to you quickly. Plus, our lab is accredited by SAMHSA, so you can rest assured your test results are handled in accordance with the highest industry standards.

At Countrywide Testing, we provide fast, accurate results in an easy-to-use format so that you can get the information you need. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive selection of testing services.