Can I be fired because of prescribed medication that I have to take?

Question

I just got a new job and am doing a drug screen today. I take painkillers regularly for a chronic illness, but I don't want my job to know. The meds are legally prescribed and I'll show my scrips to the drug test facility, but do they still tell my employer that I take these meds if they're legit? I don't get loopy from them and function normally so they don't affect my performance, but I am worried they'll fire me without even giving me a chance. Any help?

Answer 1

Funnygal is right--unless it's a safety issue there should be no problem.  However, the drug test will look for those drugs or their chemical relatives, so you need to let them know, and probably get a note from your doctor to give to the HR department.  They should NOT tell anyone you work with unless there is a reason to know.  This is hard, but you do need to tell them, so you can make sure that you are covered.  Any questions should be directed to your state's department of labor so that you get the appropriate and legal information for your state (they differ).  

Answer 2

no your employer can't fire you. Just declare to the drug test facility what you are taking. They are required by law to protect your privacy in these situations. They look for illegal sunstances. you either pass or fail

Answer 3

No, they can't fire you for taking a prescription medication.  However if the meds interfere with your work, they might.  Eg, if you operate machinery, and your pain killers make you fall asleep, creating a dangerous environment, they can fire you because you pose a danger.  

Answer 4

It is illegal to fire someone for taking legally prescribed medication, especially if it does not interfere with your work.

Answer 5

You can't be legally fired for taking medication as prescribed by a doctor.  You don't have to tell your employer outright about the medication, but It's best to let them know when signing the paperwork for the testing so they know what to look for and also what to rule out when doing the test.