Drug Testing with the Dräger DrugTest 5000

DrugTest 5000 is used by the Traffic Police to test drivers. The system consists of two components: an analyzer (DrugTest 5000 Analyzer) and a test cassette—a consumable (DrugTest 5000 TK).

The results obtained with the DrugTest 5000 should be considered an indication of the presence of illicit drugs. Final confirmation is achieved through laboratory analysis using the GC/LC-MS method. According to current Bulgarian legislation, confirmation is performed exclusively through blood testing in accredited laboratories. Currently, there are only three such laboratories, which leads to significant delays—often exceeding six months.

Until the test results are available, the driver remains without a license for at least that period, and in the event of a traffic accident, without a vehicle as well.

Why is Bulgarian legislation so restrictive?

The reason lies in the increased use of drugs and the rising number of traffic accidents involving drivers under the influence. There are many examples, and the tightening of penalties under the law is an attempt to address this problem.

Is it possible for the test used by the Traffic Police to produce a false result?

Yes—both false positives and false negatives are possible. The reasons may include:

• technological limitations;

• improper storage;

• errors in use;

• cross-reactions.

Read more in our article here.

What does a cross-reaction mean?

A cross-reaction (cross-reaction) means receiving a positive result from non-prohibited substances, such as medications containing equivalent molecules. Examples include certain sedatives and some pain relievers—the latter of which are available over the counter at pharmacies!

There is a real risk that a drug test will come back positive after taking medication. It depends on the medication taken, its concentration, and the time elapsed since ingestion.

The surest way to check whether a particular medication could cause a false positive result is to test yourself using the same devices used by the Traffic Police/Police.

The test takes about 15 minutes. Our showroom is located in the center of Sofia—in a convenient and easily accessible location, with short-term parking available. See the address and directions here.

We recommend that you schedule your visit in advance so we can assist you as quickly as possible. You can do this by leaving a note with your online order.

If you’re not from Sofia or can’t visit the showroom, you can use the DrugTest 5000 product available nearest to you DrugCheck 3000. It is suitable for home use, self-testing, and maximum discretion.