The use of ordinary paracetamol has become a real nightmare for a family in Bulgaria. A father who works in two places as a driver was subjected to a routine check, which turned into the beginning of a difficult ordeal.
In May 2024, Mr. Angelov was stopped by law enforcement for a standard roadside check. During the field drug test, the result showed the presence of cocaine in his body. This happened despite the fact that the man had not used drugs, but had been treating a severe cold with paracetamol for about ten days.
The driver's explanations that he was only taking medication were not taken into account by the authorities. An arrest followed, which set off a real drama for the entire family, including a small child.
"I was shocked when I saw the result. I have never used drugs in my life," Angelov told the NOVA team.
The consequences of the false positive test were severe and immediate - dismissal from work, shame in front of relatives and friends, as well as serious financial difficulties for the entire family. In addition, the man was faced with the threat of a huge fine of 80,000 leva.
After the initial shock, the family immediately sought a second opinion. They visited a private clinic, where Angelov underwent a new drug test. The result was categorically negative.
Later, blood tests were also conducted, which also did not show the presence of prohibited substances in his body. Despite this evidence, Mr. Angelov's driver's license has not been returned to him, which continues to create serious difficulties for him and his family.
The case raises many questions about the reliability of field drug tests and the consequences of false positives that can ruin the lives of innocent people.
This is not an isolated case, but a problem that affects many professional drivers in the country.