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Opioid addiction is one of the most frequently treated kinds of drug addiction today, with many people becoming reliant on the substance, whether through prescription or illegal use. Due to this high frequency of dependence, many employers are relying on drug testing facilities to screen applicants for job suitability. At US Compliance Consortium in Phoenix, AZ, their team wants to help you better understand the main sources of opioids — heroin and prescription medication — so you and your team can better prepare to address concerns in the workplace.

Prescription Medication

Opiate medications are commonly prescribed for pain relief and can be taken for long periods of time as part of a physician-supervised treatment protocol. However, with extended use, many individuals see an increase in their drug tolerance, requiring more and more of the substance to achieve the desired response. Though legal, these medications are not without risk, as frequent use can cause dependence, leaving patients addicted to the medication when the doctor terminates the treatment. Without assistance from their doctor, many individuals struggle with addiction, letting it impact their personal lives and careers.

Heroin

Drug testingUnlike prescription opiates, heroin is not legal in any form. The chemical makeup of heroin is similar to that of prescription medication and causes many of the same symptoms. As such, determining if an employee is relying on prescription medication or using illegal heroin can be difficult without the aid of a drug testing facility.

What You Can Do

When it comes to helping your employees prevent drug addiction, the best thing you can do is educate them about the risks associated with drug abuse. Try to make them aware of resources in the community that can help them overcome their addiction through safe treatment.

Consider making drug testing part of your hiring process by working with a corporate drug testing company like US Compliance Consortium. Visit their website to learn more about their drug-free workplace programs and call (602) 765-2200 for more information on their DOT compliance training for small businesses.

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