First Choice is Arkansas’ most trusted third-party test administrator, and we keep a Medical Review Officer (MRO) on staff to verify the accuracy of all test results. We take great pride in our commitment to legendary customer service, and we love helping our clients maintain safe and drug-free workplaces. On the other hand, prescription opioid medications provide much-needed relief for patients recovering from surgery or managing chronic pain. But is it legal to take legitimately prescribed opioids after their expiration date? And if you’re a job seeker, will it cause you to fail a drug test?

Pre-employment and random drug testing are an effective way to keep workers honest, and drug tests are also a standard operating procedure after workplace accidents or if a supervisor has a reasonable suspicion that an employee has reported to work under the influence. Here are the answers to a few frequently asked questions about prescription opioid testing, and we’re always a phone call away if we didn’t answer your specific question in the section below:

Can I use prescription opioids after my prescription has expired? Some individuals begin feeling better before they’ve used up all their medication, but choose to save their unused pills if their symptoms reoccur. The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) considers a valid prescription to be legal as long as it is being used by the person to whom it was prescribed, regardless of its expiration date.

Is taking expired opioids dangerous? Unless otherwise indicated, it’s safe to use prescription drugs past their expiration date. But the active ingredients are likely to become less effective over time, and you’re better off contacting your doctor for a refill or a new prescription.

How will legally prescribed opioids affect my drug test? Legally prescribed opioids shouldn’t exclude you from employment, but there may be reportable safety concerns if the job responsibilities include operating a vehicle or heavy machinery. Be sure to let us know about all prescription medications you’re taking during your drug test so that our MRO can authenticate the prescription through your pharmacy or physician.

Contact us online or at 501-661-9992 if you have any questions about drug and alcohol testing services in Little Rock or if you’d like to schedule an appointment.