The use of drug testing as part of a pre-employment physical examination is almost universal. Some firms are testing for drug use as part of a pre-employment physical without telling the applicant that he/she is being tested for drugs, Personnel Journal reports.

Some over-the-counter products can produce positive drug-test results. Among them: Alka-Seltzer Plus, Allerest, Bronkaid, Contact, Donnagel, Nyquil, Primatene, Promiamine capsules, Sinutab, Sudafed and Triaminic. Poppy seeds in your food can also produce a positive drug-test result.

You should not take any medication 48 hours before your pre-employment physicals, but if you must, be sure to list all drugs taken and advise the examiner.

Reprinted from Courier Journal & Times, August 28, 1987
"Careers" by Joyce Lain Kennedy