drug testing

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I am a 1st year nursing student and I start clinicals next semester. I am taking phentermine for the last 3 months, prescribed by a physcian (so its legal) for weight loss. I have lost 22 lbs. and still need a bit more to go. I have to take a drug test for clinicals. Do I stop taking it now or keep taking it and tell them that I am under a physcians care. I read online that you could test positive (cause it is a controlled substance) and the M.D didn't really tell me whether or not to stop taking them. I don't want to fail the test and get kicked out, but I also don't want to stop the weight loss as of yet.

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Specializes in Mental Health/Substance Abuse.

I'm also taking phentermine. I just told the lab I was taking it and that it's prescribed. My drug test was a month ago and no one has said anything to me about it. As long as you are under a doctors care it should be fine, even if you haven't communicated with him, obviously it's okay you're still taking it or he wouldn't have given you a prescription that allows for it. Hope this helps! :)

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I work at a pain management office that also does weight loss, and yes, phentermine does cause a positive on a drug screen. However, it tests positive for an amphetamine, the same thing that Adderal tests for. But, usually if you tell the lab, and of course if you can provide evidence that you are under the care of an MD, you should be covered. Good luck!

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Specializes in Utilization Management.

I've had 2-3 drug tests in the time I've been taking phentermine and none of them have ever come back positive.

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Specializes in Cardiac.

No matter the legally prescribed medication, if you have a doctors prescription for a legitimate illness, you cannot get into any trouble. The exception is the legality of the 'pothead card.'

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