Does Suboxone test positive for an opiate?

Guest

Q. Does Suboxone show up as an opiate in standard drug tests?

A. Standard tests for opiates are very responsive for morphine and codeine, but do not distinguish which is present. They also show a lower sensitivity for semisynthetic/synthetic opioids such as oxycodone, oxymorphone, buprenorphine, fentanyl and methadone. A negative result does not exclude the use of these opioids. Specific immunoassay tests for some semisynthetic/synthetic opioids may be available.

In cases of oxycodone, oxymorphone, buprenorphine and fentanyl, even large concentrations may not be detected. Fortunately, GC/MS assays on the same urine specimen will normally detect these semisynthetic and synthetic opioids, especially if cutoff concentrations are lowered to the LOD-the so called "no cutoff" request.

The most widely used opiate immunoassay detects morphine and codeine, but does not reliably detect semisynthetic opioids such as oxycodone, buprenorphine, or hydromorphone. Suboxone will not show up as an opiate on an opiate immunoassay. Why? It is a semisynthetic (man-made) opioid.

Reference: Urine Drug Testing In Clinical Practice Edition 3, 2006 pp. 13-14

Subject: Re: Does Suboxone test positive for an opiate? Sat 29 Nov 2008, 3:07 pm

I am glad that you posted that. Alot of people that are new to Suboxone have the question of whether or not Suboxone will show up in a drug test either at work or when they apply for a new job. With so many employers testing for drugs, I'm sure it is a relief to patients to know that unless the test is for Suboxone...It will not show up in routine drug testing as an opiate.
nannamom

Admin Number of posts : 95 Registration date : 2008-11-06

I just want to let people know it will not show up in a regular immunoassay drug screen for employment. It will show up in a GC/MS but they never run these unless they have a reason to confirm something suspicious that shows up in your drug screen. Usually, the patient or employer is the one who has to pay for it and they are aware it is being run. Exclamation

They are more expensive.

Guest

so if you are taking a regular home drug test that comes back positive for opiates, taking a suboxone is not a viable excuse- right?

Subject: Re: Does Suboxone test positive for an opiate? Sun 04 Jan 2009, 8:25 pm

bigmama,
From what I understand. If you take a drug test and it is positive for opiates, more than likely that person has used an opiate. Suboxone would not show up unless the test was for Suboxone. But an opiate itself will show up. I hope this helps to answer your question.
Dee

Subject: Re: Does Suboxone test positive for an opiate? Sun 04 Jan 2009, 9:28 pm

Hi BigMama & Dee, Very Happy

Welcome BigMama to the forum!! Exclamation

My name is Beth & I've been on the Suboxone for about 8 months now, since last May. It has changed my whole life around & given me hope again for my life & my future!! flower

Are you also on this wonderful medication or getting ready to start taking it? Question

I hope that it is going great for you as well!! Exclamation

I'd love to hear more about you, if your comfortable to share.. this place is full of super people who are really here for each other throughout the struggle!!
I also believe that Dee is absolutely correct with her answer that the test will only show positive for Suboxone or Subutex if they test specifically for either of those. A regular opiate test would NOT test positive for Suboxone use only.

Most likely, if it shows up positive, its from the use of an opiate. At least, that is how it was explained to me.. Please let me know if you find out differently or if I am somehow incorrect.. Question

BigMama, it was nice to hear from you & I look forward to getting to know you better!! Have a warm, relaxing evening!! Sleep

Sleep well BigMama & Dee!!

Thanks,
Your Friend,
Beth I love you

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