Drug tests are common in various settings, from employment screenings to medical monitoring. “BZO” on a drug test report indicates screening for benzodiazepines, a class of medications affecting the central nervous system. This article explains what BZO means, how these substances are detected, and the implications of a positive result.
What “BZO” Means
“BZO” abbreviates benzodiazepines, a group of psychoactive medications. These drugs primarily act as central nervous system depressants. They enhance the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, calming neural activity. This leads to effects like sedation, reduced anxiety, and muscle relaxation. Benzodiazepines are prescription-only due to their potent effects and potential for dependence.
Common Benzodiazepines and Their Uses
Benzodiazepines encompass various medications with specific applications and durations of action. Common examples include alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), and clonazepam (Klonopin). These medications are widely prescribed for several medical conditions.
Their primary uses include managing anxiety disorders, addressing panic attacks, and treating insomnia. They also control seizures, alleviate muscle spasms, induce relaxation or amnesia before procedures, and manage symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.
How BZOs Are Detected in Drug Tests
Detecting benzodiazepines involves various drug tests with differing detection windows. Urine tests are common, non-invasive, and detect benzodiazepines for varying periods. Short-acting benzodiazepines may be detectable in urine for up to 24 hours, while intermediate-acting ones like alprazolam and lorazepam can be found for 1 to 5 days. Longer-acting benzodiazepines, such as diazepam, might be detectable in urine for 5 to 8 days, and chronic use could extend this window to up to 30 days.
Blood tests offer a shorter detection window, identifying benzodiazepines for 12 to 24 hours. Saliva tests detect these substances for 2 to 3 days. Hair follicle tests provide the longest detection window, potentially revealing benzodiazepine use for up to 90 days or even 4 to 6 months in some cases, although hair growth rates can affect this. The specific type of benzodiazepine, the individual’s metabolism, dosage, and frequency of use all influence how long the drug remains detectable.
Understanding a Positive BZO Result
A positive BZO result indicates benzodiazepines or their metabolites in the sample. This does not automatically mean illicit use, as it could be due to a legitimate prescription. When a positive result occurs, a Medical Review Officer (MRO) reviews the findings. The MRO’s role is to determine if there is a valid medical explanation for the positive test.
The MRO contacts the individual to inquire about prescribed medications. If the individual provides a valid prescription, the MRO can verify it and report the test as negative or as having a legitimate medical explanation. Factors such as the dosage, how often the medication was taken, and the individual’s unique metabolism can influence the concentration of the drug and its metabolites, affecting detection times. Certain over-the-counter medications or other substances can sometimes lead to a false-positive result, though this is rare and typically clarified during the MRO review process.