Which factor might result in a false-positive result in a drug screening?

Certain medications or food products can indeed lead to a false-positive result in a drug screening. This occurs because many substances found in medications—both prescription and over-the-counter—as well as some foods, may contain chemical compounds that are structurally similar to the drugs being tested for. As a result, the screening test may mistakenly identify these substances as illicit drugs, thereby producing a false-positive outcome.

For example, substances like hemp or poppy seeds have been shown to trigger positive results for certain drugs like THC and opioids, respectively, despite not being indicative of drug abuse. Such interactions can complicate the accuracy of drug testing, necessitating further confirmatory testing to clarify the results. Understanding this principle is crucial for interpreting screening results and ensuring proper patient management.