Our flu seasons are getting worse, with millions of cases and hospitalizations reported in the U.S. going up every year since 2020.

Cold Medicine & Drug Tests: What Every Collector Needs to Know

If you're out here collecting specimens from the public—especially during cold, flu, and COVID season—then you already know folks are showing up coughing, sniffling, and loaded up on meds.

And here’s the kicker: some of those medications can absolutely affect drug test results. As a collector, it’s important you know what to look out for and how to guide your donors the right way.

🚨 What Cold Medicines Can Trigger a Positive?

Some common over-the-counter and prescription cold meds contain ingredients that can show up on a drug screen—and not always in a good way.

• Codeine

Found in some cough syrups, codeine is an opioid that metabolizes into morphine. If the donor doesn’t disclose it, and it flags the test, that could lead to confusion or a delay in results.

• Hydrocodone

Used for cough or pain relief, this one is a controlled substance and could absolutely show up as a positive. Again—only a problem if the donor doesn’t mention it up front.

✅ What Meds Are Usually Safe?

Now for the good news—most decongestants like pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine won’t cause a positive drug test. They might cause an initial screen to look suspicious, but follow-up confirmation usually clears it.

Still, we always recommend you tell donors: “If you’ve taken anything—even cold medicine—write it down on the form.”

📝 Your Job as the Collector

As the collector, you're not just checking boxes—you’re the first line of defense in making sure the test is documented properly. So if a donor tells you they’ve been taking something for a cold, encourage them to list it on the Custody and Control Form (CCF). That little note could make all the difference when the Medical Review Officer (MRO) reviews the results.

And if they don’t mention it? Be kind, be calm, but ask, “Have you taken any medications recently—even over-the-counter stuff for a cold or flu?”

You’d be surprised how many people forget that NyQuil and cough syrup count.

💬 Why This Matters for Us

When test results come back flagged, it can delay hiring, keep people off the job, and even cause unnecessary stress. When we, as collectors, take the time to inform and guide donors, we keep the process smooth, accurate, and fair.

🔗 Want to Keep Sharpening Your Collection Skills?

Join The Lab Society, our training and resource hub built just for collectors like you.

You’ll get access to real-world scenarios, compliance tips, and live coaching that’ll have you running collections like a pro.

Whether you’re new or experienced, we’ve got you covered.

👉 Click here to join The Lab Society

👉 Take a peek inside the membership

Keep collecting, stay compliant, and don’t be afraid to educate the public. You’re doing more than just collecting cups—you’re protecting the process.

— Coach Mary 💼💪

Other resources to help you get started with your drug testing business