Understanding False Positive Alcohol Test Results: Common Causes and Prevention

Introduction

False positive alcohol test results can often lead to unnecessary stress and accusations. While the EtG (Ethyl glucuronide) test is highly sensitive and accurate in detecting recent alcohol consumption, it is not infallible. This article explores common causes of false positive test results, including the unexpected presence of alcohol substitutes, and offers practical advice on how to avoid these pitfalls.

Unexpected Sources of Ethanol

While alcohol is widely recognized for its presence in beverages such as beer, wine, and spirits, it is surprising to learn that ethanol can also be found in a variety of non-alcoholic products. The reasons for this include:

Medicines and Supplements: Certain over-the-counter (OTC) medications and supplements, such as cough syrups and liquid herbal extracts like Ginkgo Biloba, can contain alcohol as a base or flavoring. Food and Beverages: Some foods and meals prepared with spirits, such as certain restaurant dishes or baked goods, can leave behind small amounts of alcohol in the system. Personal Care Products: Common items like mouthwash, hand sanitizers, and even vanilla extract can contain ethanol and be absorbed into the skin, leading to false positives on alcohol tests.

Common Causes of False Positive Results

Up to 100% of false positive alcohol test results can be attributed to the following:

1. Ingesting Medicines or Supplements Containing Ethanol:

Products like cough syrups and Ginkgo Biloba can contain noticeable amounts of alcohol, leading to false positive tests. For instance, NyQuil, a widely used cough suppressant, is known to contain 50 proof alcohol.

2. Eating Fermented Foods:

Some fermented foods, such as pickles and sauerkraut, can have traces of alcohol introduced during the fermentation process. Consuming these foods can lead to unexpected positive test results.

3. Using Over-the-Counter (OTC) Products:

Products such as certain hand sanitizers and mouthwashes can be ethanol-based and, when absorbed through the skin, can trigger an alcohol test. Even vanilla extract, typically used for flavoring, has been known to cause false positives.

Prevention Strategies

To avoid false positive results, it is crucial to:

Read Product Labels Carefully: Always check the "drug facts" on the back of any product that you consume, including medicines, supplements, and personal care items, for signs of ethanol. Avoid Use of Ethanol-Containing Products: If you are in a zero-tolerance program or involved in legal proceedings, avoid using hand sanitizers, mouthwashes, and other ethanol-based products that could cause a false positive. Opt for Non-Alcoholic Alternatives: Use mouthwashes and sanitizers that do not contain alcohol, and choose vanilla and almond extracts as flavoring agents where possible. Understand Your Medications: Consult with your healthcare provider about the potential alcohol content in prescription and OTC medications, especially those used for cold and flu symptoms.

Conclusion

False positive alcohol test results can cause significant inconvenience and stress, especially if they lead to unwanted scrutiny or legal complications. By understanding the common sources of false positives and taking preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of these incidents. Always ensure you are fully informed about the ingredients in the products you use, and if in doubt, consult a healthcare professional.