Time for a Random Drug Test: The Red Flags of Opiate Addiction

Being addicted to opioid’s, whether it is prescribed to you or not, is becoming a crisis across the world. Employers are now taking precautions to stop the crisis in the workplace.

They are conducting random drug tests to ensure that all employees are complying with job guidelines.

Perhaps, you know someone that is suffering from opioid addiction, or you may be the one that is suffering from the habit. There are some key red flags that you and those around you should be on the lookout for when addressing the opioid addiction crisis.

What are Opioids

Before you begin looking for the signs of opioid addiction, one must understand what opioids are. Opioids are drugs that have been derived from the poppy plant, such as heroin, morphine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, fentanyl, and methadone.

The majority of the time, opioids are prescribed for people that have been involved in traumatic accidents that have left them in excruciating pain. The medication is a method of managing that pain, but if abused, it can become addictive.

Opioid Addiction Red Flags

There are some things that you and loved ones can be on the lookout for. By keeping an eye out for these signs, you could get your loved one the help that they need before their addiction gets out of control.

Changes in Behavior

There are quite a few changes that can happen in the behavioral aspect of someone that is addicted to opioids. One is that they become financially irresponsible out of nowhere. Financial problems could mean failing to keep up with bills or always asking to borrow money.

Another sign that someone is using is that they experience a fluctuation in their mood. When an addict is running low on drugs or unable to find drugs, you will notice that they are irritable and become angry quickly.

The reverse of this is when they do have drugs in their system, they may be in an excellent or upbeat mood. Other signs of addiction are that the addict may begin to not complete their usual responsibilities.

They may begin missing work or quit their job altogether and may be asked to take a drug test. This is a real sign that the addiction has taken over.

Changes in Appearance

Someone that is heavily addicted to opioids will begin to lose weight at a rapid pace. This can be due to going multiple days without eating. Another sign is constricted pupils.

Most drugs tend to enlarge the pupil, but opioids constrict the pupil making them appear like pinpoints. Along with constricted pupils, an addict will nod off at various times without warning. 

The use of opioids causes a sedated effect on the brain and body that causes the addict to nod off while they are high.

Random Drug Test

At this point, an employer may begin to notice the signs and red flags that an employee is using drugs. If they start to see a pattern of the employee being late or missing work, ultimately, they could issue a drug test.

According to most company policies, if an employee is caught using drugs while working, they will be terminated immediately.

Need Help 

If you’re an employer or a loved one that needs to give someone a random drug test, we understand it can be difficult. But, we want to provide you with the most accurate drug test that you can find anywhere. 

Visit our services page and select the right drug test for your needs.