Does Delta-8 Show Up on a Drug Test?
Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as Delta-8 THC, is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Similar in structure to Delta-9 THC, the main psychoactive component in marijuana, Delta-8 THC has grown in popularity due to its milder psychoactive effects and legal status in certain jurisdictions. However, this legality doesn’t necessarily clear users from testing positive on drug tests. This can lead to significant concerns for consumers. As the use of Delta-8 continues to rise, it’s important to understand how it interacts with drug testing protocols and whether it can result in positive test outcomes. Here’s what you need to know about Delta-8 THC and drug tests. Let’s dive in!
How Delta-8 THC Works and Does Delta-8 Show Up on a Drug Test?
Delta-8 THC interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, or ECS. This system regulates various bodily functions, like sleep, mood, metabolism, and more. Though chemically distinct, Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC share a few similarities. Case in point? Delta-8 can also produce psychoactive effects, though generally milder than those of Delta-9 THC.
Types of Drug Tests
- Urine Tests: The most common form of drug testing. Urine Tests are capable of detecting THC metabolites several days to weeks after use depending on the frequency and amount of usage.
- Blood Tests: Blood Tests are less common for employment and generally used in accident investigations and DUI cases. These tests detect THC presence after a shorter duration than urine tests.
- Saliva Tests: Saliva Tests are increasingly popular due to overall convenience and ease of use. Saliva Tests typically detects THC for a shorter period than urine tests.
- Hair Follicle Tests: A Hair Follicle test can detect the presence of THC for up to 90 days or more, offering the most extended detection window.
Delta-8 THC and Drug Tests
Most standard drug tests designed to detect THC look for metabolites of THC, primarily THC-COOH. THC-COOH is a byproduct of the metabolism of Delta-9 THC, and since Delta-8 is metabolized in a similar way, it can also result in the presence of these metabolites. Consequently, if you consume Delta-8 THC products, there’s a high chance that you will test positive for THC on a drug test.
Factors Influencing Detection
- Frequency of Use: Regular users are more likely to test positive due to the accumulation of THC metabolites in their system.
- Potency of the Product: Higher potency products increase the likelihood of a positive test.
- Metabolism: Individual metabolism affects how quickly THC metabolites are broken down in the body.
- Body Fat: THC is fat-soluble, so individuals with higher body fat percentages may retain metabolites longer.
Legal and Employment Considerations for your question Does Delta-8 Show Up on a Drug Test?
Despite its legal status in some areas, many employers continue to maintain strict no-THC policies. Users of Delta-8 THC should be aware of their employer’s drug policies, especially since legal protection for Delta-8 use is often unclear or nonexistent. This is especially important for highly-regulated positions – governmental bodies, athletes, and researchers alike may face testing at some point.
Detecting Delta 8 THC
Delta-8 THC can show up on drug tests, so you need to be cautious. Its detection is influenced by several factors, including the type of test, frequency of use, and the individual’s overall metabolism. Anyone considering using Delta-8 THC should be aware of the potential legal and employment risks associated with testing positive for THC on a drug test. Consequences can be severe even as Delta 8 use has become more open over time.
Recommendations For Consumers
- Check Local Laws: Always be aware of the regulations surrounding Delta-8 THC in your jurisdiction.
- Understand Employment Policies: Be clear on your workplace’s stance on cannabinoids. This is especially important if you’re in a public-facing role.
- Consider Detox and Abstinence: If you are concerned about drug testing, consider abstaining from use to clear THC metabolites from your system.
Now you’re better equipped to understanding essential aspects of Delta-8 THC and its detection in drug tests. If you’re after more info, check out the rest of the Sun State Hemp blog here! We’ve got plenty of info to help consumers stay educated and stay aware.