Last updated : March 31, 2025
A drug test is something a lot of people are afraid of, but it is not supposed to be an intimidation tactic. The idea behind a drug test is simply to be a safety mechanism. Workplace drug tests are part of the policy to keep the job safe and productive. Employees abusing drugs still go into a panic though, and they will often do some extreme things to help them pass their test, even if those things are simple myths.
Drug testing myth #1: Chug a ton of water
People will often drink a lot of water to dilute their urine in attempt to pass their drug test. Some people start weeks before, and some people will start days before, but in either case, it won’t work. This method simply will not work because it lowers creatinine levels, and drug tests track creatinine levels. If the test detects an attempted tamper, then a more expensive follow up test may be required, or an immediate failure might be considered depending on the policy.
Drug testing myth #2: Add adulterants
Adulterants are sometimes added to the urine sample directly. Drano, ammonia, bleach, Visine and vinegar are the most common adulterants. They are added to the test to hide the drugs being tested for, or to taint the sample, rendering the test faulty. Drug tests can detect these products and will either trigger a follow up drug test or immediate failure.
Drug testing myth #3: Exercise
Marijuana’s key chemical, THC, is stored in the the fat cells of the body. The thought process behind this myth is a reduction of fat will reduce THC. A person would have to know the test is coming at least 60 days prior for the method to be plausible. It takes awhile to lose the amount of weight necessary to pass a test.
Drug testing myth #4: Diuretics
Diuretics are things, which cause people to urinate more often. Cranberry juice, tea and coffee are the best examples. A vast amount of these liquids would need to be ingested for the method to even remotely work. Aside from it not being plausible, the diuretics also reduce creatinine in the urine. Drug tests can detect these attempts to tamper.
Drug testing myth #5: Detox products
Detox kits and products usually are just geared towards making people urinate more often, and they serve no purpose other than the first myth, which is drinking more water. A lot of fiber is another method because it blocks fat storage in the body, and it assists in weight loss. This would have the same outcome as over-exercising.
The one way to pass a drug test…
Don’t use drugs.
It really is the only way to successfully pass a drug a test.
