Polygraph tests work by measuring physiological responses in the body, such as changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing, that are associated with stress and anxiety. The idea is that when a person lies, their body will exhibit these signs of stress, which can be detected by the machine.
Polygraph tests are used in a variety of settings, including criminal investigations, background checks, and employment screening. They are often seen as a powerful tool for detecting deception, and many people believe that they are infallible. However, there is much debate around the accuracy and reliability of polygraph testing.
Despite this debate, polygraph tests continue to be used in many contexts, and understanding how drugs and medications can impact their results is an important consideration for both test administrators and test subjects.
In the following sections, we will explore the various types of drugs and medications that can affect polygraph tests, how they impact test results, and the implications of drug and medication use on the use of polygraph tests for detecting deception.
Depressants
Depressants are a type of drug that acts on the central nervous system, slowing down brain activity and reducing feelings of alertness and arousal.
There are several different types of depressants, including benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and alcohol. Benzodiazepines, such as Xanax and Valium, are commonly prescribed for anxiety and sleep disorders, while barbiturates are primarily used as sedatives and anesthetics. Alcohol is the most commonly used depressant and can be found in beer, wine, and liquor.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are a class of medications that are commonly used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizure disorders. They work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which can help reduce overactivity in the brain and promote relaxation.
Some common examples of benzodiazepines include diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), and alprazolam (Xanax). These medications are often prescribed by doctors and can be obtained legally with a prescription.
However, benzodiazepines can also be obtained illegally and abused for their sedative effects. When used in high doses or in combination with other drugs or alcohol, benzodiazepines can cause drowsiness, impaired coordination, confusion, and memory loss.
The effects of benzodiazepines on physiological responses measured during a polygraph test can vary depending on the specific medication and dosage used. Some studies have found that benzodiazepine use can lead to false negatives during certain types of polygraph tests that measure physiological responses, while other studies have found no significant impact on test results.
How benzodiazepines can impact polygraph test results
One way benzodiazepines can impact polygraph test results is by reducing anxiety and stress levels, which can lead to an inconclusive result because of physiological responses that are not significantly different from baseline levels. Benzodiazepines can also cause sedation and drowsiness, which may affect a person’s ability to concentrate and recall information accurately during the test. This can result in a false positive result, where a person who is telling the truth may appear to be lying due to their impaired cognitive abilities.
Studies have shown that the use of benzodiazepines can affect polygraph test results in a significant way. In one study, participants who took lorazepam, a commonly prescribed benzodiazepine, had significantly lower physiological responses to questions related to deception compared to participants who did not take the drug. Another study found that participants who took diazepam, another benzodiazepine, had higher false positive rates on the test compared to participants who did not take the drug.
It is important to note that the impact of benzodiazepines on polygraph test results can vary depending on the individual and the specific circumstances of the test. Factors such as the dose of the drug, the length of time it has been taken, and the person’s overall health can all play a role in how it affects the test results.
Barbiturates
Barbiturates are a type of depressant drug that was widely prescribed in the mid-20th century to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizure disorders. They work by depressing the central nervous system, causing sedation and relaxation, and are potentially dangerous in high doses.
Barbiturates can be classified as short-acting or long-acting, depending on how quickly they take effect and how long their effects last. Short-acting barbiturates like pentobarbital and secobarbital are typically used as sleep aids, while long-acting barbiturates like phenobarbital are used to treat seizure disorders.
Like other depressant drugs, barbiturates can cause a range of side effects, including dizziness, confusion, slurred speech, and impaired coordination.
Because of their potential for abuse and addiction, barbiturates are now less commonly prescribed and have largely been replaced by newer drugs like benzodiazepines and non-benzodiazepine sedatives. However, they are still used in some cases to treat severe seizure disorders or as anesthesia for surgery.
How barbiturates can impact polygraph test results
Barbiturates can affect the accuracy of a polygraph test in several ways. One of the main effects of barbiturates is that they slow down the body’s reflexes and reduce reaction time. This can make it more difficult for a person to respond quickly and accurately to the questions asked during the test, which could result in false readings.
Additionally, barbiturates can cause drowsiness, confusion, and impaired cognitive function. These effects can make it harder for a person to concentrate during the polygraph test, leading to inaccurate or inconsistent results.
Barbiturates can also affect the body’s physiological responses, such as blood pressure and heart rate. Since polygraph tests rely on these physiological responses to detect changes in a person’s stress levels, barbiturates can interfere with the accuracy of the test results.
Furthermore, barbiturates can interact with other medications and substances, such as alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines, which can further complicate the effects of the drug on the polygraph test results.
Alcohol
Alcohol is a depressant that affects the central nervous system. When you consume alcohol, it is absorbed into your bloodstream and travels to your brain, where it alters the way your brain works.
Alcohol is often consumed as a recreational drug and is legal in most countries for individuals over the age of 21. It is available in various forms, such as beer, wine, and liquor. However, excessive consumption of alcohol can lead to various health issues, such as liver damage, heart disease, and neurological problems.
The effects of alcohol can vary depending on the amount consumed and the individual’s tolerance level. In low doses, alcohol can produce a feeling of relaxation and euphoria. However, higher doses can cause impaired judgment, memory loss, slurred speech, and slowed reflexes.
How alcohol can impact polygraph test results
One of the most significant effects of alcohol on polygraph test results is its impact on heart rate. Alcohol can cause your heart rate to increase or decrease, depending on the amount you consume. This fluctuation can lead to inconsistent readings during the test, making it difficult for the examiner to determine whether you’re telling the truth or lying.
Alcohol can also affect your breathing rate, which is another crucial physiological response measured during a polygraph test. If you’re intoxicated, your breathing rate may be slower or shallower than usual, which can make it challenging for the examiner.
Moreover, alcohol can impact your cognitive function, making it more difficult for you to understand the questions being asked and to formulate coherent answers. You may also be more likely to forget details or provide inconsistent answers, which can further complicate the test results.
Lastly, alcohol can impact your mood and emotional state, which can affect your physiological responses. For instance, if you’re anxious or agitated due to the effects of alcohol, it can cause your sweat gland activity to increase, leading to false positives on the polygraph test.
Stimulants
Stimulants are a type of drug that can have significant effects on the human body and mind. They are often used to increase alertness, attention, and energy levels, but they can also have negative side effects and be potentially dangerous.
One common type of stimulant is caffeine, which is found in many foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, chocolate, and energy drinks. Caffeine is a mild stimulant that can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and alertness. While it is generally considered safe in moderate doses, excessive caffeine consumption can lead to negative effects such as anxiety, insomnia, and heart palpitations.
Another type of stimulant is amphetamines, which are a class of drugs that includes methamphetamine and Adderall. Amphetamines are often used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, but they can also be used recreationally. Amphetamines can increase alertness, focus, and energy levels, but they can also cause negative side effects such as anxiety, agitation, and hallucinations.
Cocaine is another powerful stimulant that can have significant effects on the body and mind. It is highly addictive and can cause euphoria, increased energy levels, and a sense of confidence. However, it can also lead to negative side effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and heart problems.
Finally, there is also the class of drugs known as synthetic cathinones, which are often referred to as “bath salts.” These drugs are often used recreationally and can cause effects similar to those of amphetamines and cocaine, but they can also be much more dangerous. Synthetic cathinones can cause severe agitation, paranoia, hallucinations, and even death.
How stimulants can impact polygraph test results
Stimulants can have a significant impact on the physiological responses that are measured during a polygraph test. For example, caffeine can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which may lead to false positives during certain polygraph tests. Similarly, amphetamines can increase respiration rates and alter breathing patterns, which can also affect the accuracy of the test.
In addition to their effects on physiological responses, stimulants can also affect an individual’s cognitive functioning and decision-making abilities, which can impact their performance on a polygraph test. For example, cocaine use can lead to impaired judgment, impulsivity, and poor decision-making, which can increase the likelihood of false positives during a polygraph test.
Research has also shown that the use of synthetic cathinones can have significant effects on physiological responses and cognitive functioning, which can further impact polygraph test results. Synthetic cathinones can cause extreme agitation, paranoia, and hallucinations, which can affect an individual’s ability to provide accurate and reliable responses during a polygraph test.
Caffeine
When you consume caffeine, it is quickly absorbed into your bloodstream and travels to your brain, where it blocks the effects of a neurotransmitter called adenosine. Adenosine is responsible for promoting sleep and suppressing arousal, so when caffeine blocks its effects, you feel more alert and awake.
Caffeine can have a number of effects on your body, including increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, and increased production of stomach acid. It can also cause headaches, restlessness, and trouble sleeping if consumed in large amounts or too close to bedtime.
It’s worth noting that caffeine can have different effects on different people, and some people are more sensitive to its effects than others. Additionally, caffeine can interact with certain medications and health conditions.
How caffeine can impact polygraph test results
Research has shown that caffeine can have a significant impact on polygraph test results. A study conducted by the Department of Defense found that consuming caffeine prior to a polygraph test resulted in a higher rate of false positive results. Another study conducted by the University of Utah found that participants who consumed caffeine prior to a polygraph test had higher heart rates and blood pressure readings, which could be misinterpreted as indicators of deception.
In addition to its physical effects, caffeine can also impact your mental state. It can cause jitters, nervousness, and anxiety, which can make it difficult to remain calm and focused during the test. This can lead to inaccurate results, as the examiner may interpret your nervousness as an indication of deception.
It is important to note that the impact of caffeine on polygraph test results can vary depending on the individual’s caffeine tolerance, the amount of caffeine consumed, and the timing of consumption. However, it is generally recommended that individuals avoid consuming caffeine prior to a polygraph test to ensure the most accurate results.
Nicotine
Nicotine is a naturally occurring alkaloid found in the tobacco plant and is commonly used in cigarettes, cigars, and other tobacco products. When nicotine is consumed, it binds to specific receptors in the brain, leading to the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This can lead to feelings of pleasure, relaxation, and reduced anxiety, which are part of the reason why nicotine is so addictive.
In addition to its effects on the brain, nicotine can also have a range of physical effects on the body. It can increase heart rate, constrict blood vessels, and increase blood pressure, which can put strain on the cardiovascular system. Nicotine can also reduce appetite and increase the metabolic rate.
How nicotine can impact polygraph test results
One way that nicotine use can impact polygraph test results is by increasing your heart rate and blood pressure. These changes can be interpreted by a polygraph examiner as indicating deception or anxiety, even if you are telling the truth. In fact, research has shown that nicotine use can lead to false-positive results on a polygraph test.
In addition to its effects on heart rate and blood pressure, nicotine use can also impact your breathing patterns. Smoking and other forms of tobacco use can cause respiratory problems and make it more difficult for you to take deep, even breaths. This can lead to irregular breathing patterns during a polygraph test, which can again be interpreted as indicating deception or anxiety.
Finally, nicotine use can also impact your psychological state and cognitive function. While nicotine can initially produce feelings of relaxation and reduce anxiety, long-term use can actually increase anxiety and stress levels. This can impact your ability to remain calm and focused during a polygraph test and may increase the likelihood of false-positive results.
Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications
Antidepressants are a class of medication commonly prescribed to individuals with mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety. These medications work by altering the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, which can help alleviate symptoms of these disorders. While antidepressants can be beneficial for individuals who need them, they can also have potential side effects and impact certain physiological responses, which may impact the results of a polygraph test.
Antidepressants are divided into several classes based on their mechanism of action. The most common classes include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Each class has its own unique properties and side effects.
SSRIs are the most commonly prescribed antidepressants, and they work by blocking the reuptake of serotonin in the brain. This can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. However, SSRIs can also cause side effects such as nausea, dizziness, and sexual dysfunction. Examples of SSRIs include Prozac, Zoloft, and Paxil.
SNRIs work by blocking the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. This can also help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, but may cause side effects such as headache, nausea, and insomnia.
TCAs work by blocking the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine, similar to SNRIs. However, TCAs also block the reuptake of other neurotransmitters such as dopamine, which can cause side effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation.
MAOIs work by blocking the enzyme monoamine oxidase, which breaks down neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. This can help increase the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. However, MAOIs can also have potentially dangerous interactions with certain foods and medications.
Beta-blockers are a class of medication commonly used to treat high blood pressure, but they can also be effective in treating certain types of anxiety, such as performance anxiety. Beta-blockers work by blocking the effects of adrenaline in the body, which can help reduce physical symptoms of anxiety such as rapid heart rate and shaking. Examples of beta-blockers include propranolol and atenolol.
How antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can impact polygraph test results
The use of antidepressants can potentially impact the results of a polygraph test. This is because they can affect a person’s physiological responses, which are measured by the polygraph machine during the test. For example, some antidepressants can cause drowsiness or sedation, which can lead to slower breathing and heart rates. This could potentially be interpreted as an attempt to deceive, which could result in a false positive on the test.
Additionally, some antidepressants can cause changes in blood pressure, which could also be misinterpreted by the polygraph machine. For example, an increase in blood pressure could be seen as a sign of deception, even if the person is telling the truth. This could also result in a false positive.
It’s important to note that not all antidepressants will have the same impact on polygraph test results. SSRIs, for example, have been found to have a minimal impact on physiological responses and are generally considered safe to use before a polygraph test.
Pain medications
Pain medications, also known as analgesics, are a class of drugs used to relieve pain. They work by blocking the pain signals that are sent to your brain and can be used to treat a wide range of pain conditions, from mild headaches to severe chronic pain.
There are several different types of pain medications, each with their own benefits and potential side effects. Some of the most commonly used pain medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), acetaminophen, opioids, and topical analgesics.
NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, are often used to treat mild to moderate pain and inflammation. They work by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the body that cause pain and inflammation. While NSAIDs are generally considered safe, they can cause side effects such as stomach upset, ulcers, and kidney damage with long-term use.
Acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, is another common pain medication that is used to treat mild to moderate pain. Unlike NSAIDs, acetaminophen does not have anti-inflammatory properties. It works by blocking pain signals in the brain.
How pain medications can impact polygraph test results
Some pain medications, such as opioids, can cause drowsiness and impair cognitive function. This can make it more difficult for an individual to focus during a polygraph test.
On the other hand, non-opioid pain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or aspirin, may have less of an impact on cognitive function but can still cause physical effects that may interfere with the polygraph test. For example, these medications may cause changes in blood pressure or heart rate, which could potentially be interpreted as signs of deception by the polygraph examiner.
Opiates
Opiates are a class of drugs that are derived from the opium poppy. They are known for their pain-relieving and euphoric effects and are often used for medicinal purposes, such as managing chronic pain. Opiates are also commonly abused for their recreational effects.
Opiates work by binding to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord, known as opioid receptors. This results in the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is associated with pleasure and reward. Opiates can produce feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and pain relief.
There are several types of opiates, including natural opiates like morphine and codeine, semi-synthetic opioids like oxycodone and hydrocodone, and synthetic opioids like fentanyl and tramadol. These drugs can be prescribed by a doctor or obtained illicitly.
While opiates can provide pain relief, they also come with risks and potential side effects. Misuse of these drugs can lead to addiction, overdose, and other negative health consequences.
How opiates can impact polygraph test results
One of the main ways that opiates can impact polygraph tests is by reducing the baseline physiological responses that examiners look for when trying to determine if someone is lying. For example, opiates can decrease heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration rate, which are all indicators of stress that are looked for in baseline responses. In addition, opiates can cause a sense of relaxation and euphoria, which may make it harder for the examiner to compare the physiological signs of stress.
Another way that opiates can impact polygraph tests is by interfering with the accuracy of the test itself. Opiates can affect cognitive function, including memory and attention, which are essential for accurately answering questions on the test. This can lead to confusion or difficulty in understanding the questions being asked, which may result in inaccurate or inconsistent responses.
Antihypertensive drugs
Antihypertensive drugs, also known as blood pressure medications, are used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).
There are several types of antihypertensive drugs, including diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, and angiotensin II receptor blockers. Each type of medication works differently to lower blood pressure.
Diuretics, also known as “water pills,” work by helping the kidneys remove excess salt and water from the body, which can lower blood volume and subsequently lower blood pressure.
Beta-blockers work by blocking the effects of the hormone adrenaline, which can cause the heart to beat faster and harder, leading to increased blood pressure.
ACE inhibitors work by blocking the production of a hormone called angiotensin II, which can constrict blood vessels and raise blood pressure.
Calcium channel blockers work by blocking calcium from entering the cells of the heart and blood vessels, which can relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure.
Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) work by blocking the effects of angiotensin II, which can cause blood vessels to constrict and blood pressure to increase.
How antihypertensive drugs can impact polygraph test results
- Beta-blockers can cause physical symptoms that may be interpreted as signs of deception during a polygraph test, such as a slowed heart rate and decreased sweating. As a result, some polygraph examiners may ask individuals taking beta-blockers to disclose this information prior to the test.
- While ACE inhibitors are unlikely to directly impact the results of a polygraph test, they may cause side effects such as coughing or dizziness that could potentially interfere with an individual’s ability to sit still and remain calm during the test.
- Calcium channel blockers can cause dizziness, fatigue, and other side effects that could potentially impact an individual’s ability to concentrate during the test.
Muscle relaxants
Muscle relaxants are a type of medication used to relieve muscle spasms or tightness. They work by reducing muscle contractions, which can help alleviate pain and improve mobility. There are different types of muscle relaxants, each with their own unique mechanism of action.
One type of muscle relaxant is called a centrally acting muscle relaxant. This type of medication works by targeting the central nervous system, specifically the spinal cord and brain. Examples of centrally acting muscle relaxants include baclofen and tizanidine. These medications can cause drowsiness and dizziness and may also affect your ability to concentrate.
Another type of muscle relaxant is called a peripheral muscle relaxant. These medications work by targeting the muscles themselves and include drugs such as dantrolene and botulinum toxin (Botox). Peripheral muscle relaxants can cause side effects such as weakness or fatigue, and may also impact your ability to perform certain tasks.
How muscle relaxants can impact polygraph test results
Muscle relaxants can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision, which can make it difficult for a person to concentrate and respond to questions in a timely and coherent manner. These symptoms can also cause a person to appear less alert and engaged, which could be misinterpreted as an attempt to conceal information.
In addition, some muscle relaxants have sedative effects that can slow down a person’s breathing and heart rate. This can potentially interfere with the polygraph’s ability to accurately measure changes in these physiological responses in relation to the questions being asked. In some cases, muscle relaxants can even suppress physiological responses altogether, making it difficult for the polygraph to detect any changes in the person’s responses to questions.
Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs
OTC drugs can be divided into several categories based on their active ingredients and intended use. Here are some of the most common types of OTC drugs:
- Pain relievers: These medications, also known as analgesics, are used to relieve mild to moderate pain. The most common pain relievers include acetaminophen, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen.
- Antihistamines: Antihistamines are used to relieve the symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical that is released during an allergic reaction. Some common antihistamines include diphenhydramine, loratadine, and cetirizine.
- Decongestants: Decongestants are used to relieve nasal congestion caused by allergies or the common cold. They work by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and opens up the airways. Some common decongestants include pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine.
- Cough and cold medications: These medications are used to relieve symptoms of the common cold, such as coughing, sneezing, and congestion. They may contain a combination of antihistamines, decongestants, and cough suppressants. It is important to note that cough and cold medications should not be given to children under the age of two, as they can cause serious side effects.
- Antacids: Antacids are used to relieve symptoms of indigestion and heartburn. They work by neutralizing stomach acid, which can cause irritation and discomfort. Some common antacids include calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, and aluminum hydroxide.
How over-the-counter drugs can impact polygraph test results
Firstly, antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (found in medications like Benadryl) can cause drowsiness and impair cognitive function, which may impact your ability to accurately answer questions during a polygraph test.
Decongestants like pseudoephedrine (found in medications like Sudafed) can also cause physical effects such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, which could potentially be interpreted as indicators of deception during a polygraph test.
Similarly, cough and cold medications containing dextromethorphan (such as Robitussin) may also cause physical effects like increased heart rate and blood pressure, as well as potentially impair cognitive function.
It’s important to note that not all over-the-counter medications will impact polygraph test results, and the specific effects may vary depending on the individual and the medication being taken.
If you are unsure about whether a particular OTC drug may impact the test, it is always best to consult with a medical professional or the polygraph examiner.
Can polygraph tests detect drug or medication use?
When it comes to the question of whether polygraph tests can detect drug or medication use directly, the answer is no. Polygraph tests are not designed to detect the presence of drugs or medications in your system.
However, the examiner may be able to infer the use of drugs or medications based on physiological responses observed during the test.
How do polygraph examiners account for drug or medication use?
One step is pre-test screening, which typically involves asking the test taker about any prescription or non-prescription drugs they have taken recently. This information can help the examiner determine whether any medications may impact the test results or if any additional precautions need to be taken.
Additionally, examiners may adjust the testing procedures or questions based on the test taker’s medication or drug use. For example, if a test taker is taking medication that may impact their physiological responses, the examiner may adjust the baseline questions to account for this.
In some cases, examiners may supplement the polygraph test with other testing methods to help account for potential drug or medication use. For example, some examiners may use a blood or urine test to detect the presence of drugs in the test taker’s system. Alternatively, they may use a cognitive-based test, such as a concealed information test, which can help determine the test taker’s truthfulness without relying solely on physiological responses.
Legal Implications of Drug and Medication Use on Polygraph Testing
Drug and medication use during a polygraph test can have legal implications for individuals. In some cases, the use of drugs or medications may be seen as an attempt to manipulate the results of the test, which can result in serious legal consequences.
For example, in the United States, the use of drugs or medications to affect the results of a polygraph test may be considered obstruction of justice, which is a criminal offense. Additionally, individuals who are found to have attempted to manipulate the results of a polygraph test may face legal repercussions in civil court cases, such as losing custody battles or being denied employment opportunities.
Conclusion
In summary, it is clear that drugs and medications can impact the accuracy of polygraph tests, but most of them will do so in an insignificant way. Any drug that drastically affects your results can cause them to be inconclusive since the test is based on a comparison of your reactions and physical recordings. If your polygraph exam shows inconclusive findings, it may be conducted again. The effects of these substances can vary depending on their specific properties as well as individual factors such as dosage and frequency of use.
It is advisable to disclose any drug or medication use prior to taking a polygraph, as this can help ensure accurate results.
While more research is needed in this area, the available evidence suggests that drugs and medications should be considered as potential factors that can impact the results. It is important to approach the use of these substances with caution and to seek professional advice if there are any concerns about their potential impact on the accuracy of the test.