Yes, benzyl alcohol can show up on a drug test, specifically on a breath test.
While not considered a drug of abuse, benzyl alcohol, a common ingredient in some oral health products, can indeed trigger a positive result on breath test machines. This is particularly relevant for those who have recently used certain topical medications.
Understanding Benzyl Alcohol and Breath Tests
Benzyl alcohol is an aromatic alcohol used as a solvent, preservative, and local anesthetic in various products. Its presence can lead to what is known as a "false positive" reading on breath alcohol tests.
How Benzyl Alcohol Appears on Tests
When a person uses an oral gel or other product containing benzyl alcohol, residues can remain in the mouth. If a breath test is administered shortly after application, the breath test machine may detect the presence of alcohol compounds, interpreting them as ethanol (the alcohol found in alcoholic beverages). This can lead to an inaccurate positive reading, indicating alcohol consumption or impairment when none has occurred.
Common Products Containing Benzyl Alcohol
Benzyl alcohol is found in a variety of over-the-counter and prescription products. A notable example highlighted for its impact on breath tests is Anbesol, an ingredient in many oral gels used to treat conditions like:
- Canker sores
- Toothaches
- Gum irritation
If an individual has recently applied such an oral gel and subsequently undergoes a breath test, the likelihood of a false positive reading for alcohol increases.
Implications of a False Positive Reading
A false positive reading for alcohol on a breath test, especially in contexts like a roadside sobriety check, can have serious implications. It can mistakenly suggest impairment or alcohol consumption, even if the individual has consumed no alcohol.
To illustrate the specific type of test affected:
| Test Type | Benzyl Alcohol Detection | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Breath Test | Yes, potentially | Can cause false positives for alcohol if oral products are recently used. |
| Urine Test | Not typically | Benzyl alcohol is not routinely tested for as a drug in standard urine drug screens. |
| Blood Test | Not typically | Not generally screened for as an illicit substance. |
| Hair Follicle | Not typically | Not generally screened for as an illicit substance. |
Key Considerations for Avoiding False Positives:
- Timing: The risk of a false positive from oral gels is highest immediately after use.
- Mouth Rinse: Rinsing the mouth thoroughly with water before a breath test can help reduce the concentration of benzyl alcohol residues.
- Inform Testing Personnel: If you have used an oral gel containing benzyl alcohol recently and are required to take a breath test, it is advisable to inform the test administrator.
In summary, while not a drug in the conventional sense that drug tests target, benzyl alcohol can influence breath tests, leading to unintended and potentially misleading results.
