1. Why doesn't a drug screen measure all drugs?
Drug tests are set up for their specific uses, typically workplace and legal testing. Some laboratories may offer more than one drug screen panel or a doctor, or other authorized entity, may select tests individually.
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2. Why might a doctor only test for a single drug?
If a doctor strongly suspects that a person has taken a specific drug or is monitoring the person for previous abuse of that substance, then he may order only that drug test. He may also order a single test if the suspect drug is not part of an offered drug screen.
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3. Why would someone be tested for something that is legal?
A substance can be legal but may be banned in certain circumstances. For instance, an insurance company may test an insurance applicant for nicotine to verify a person's assertion that they are not currently using tobacco. In the case of Olympic athletes, many of the prohibited substances are legal but have the potential to affect the athlete's performance. Athletes must exercise caution in their choices of medications as they are ultimately responsible for any substances detected in their bodies.
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