Hemp-derived Delta-8 THC is one of the most popular alternatives to Delta-9 THC as it’s legal, yet a gentler cannabinoid in terms of effects. However, users aren’t sure whether it can test positive on a drug test.
The answer is simple: yes, it can show up on a drug test. However, the amount of time Delta-8 stays in your body and is detectable on a drug test depends on the test type, how often you use this cannabinoid, and several other factors.
What Is Delta-8 THC?
Nowadays, many individuals prefer to use Delta-8 THC products instead of Delta-9 THC. Both cannabinoids are found in hemp, and each of them has a unique effect on the body. Most of the THC in hemp is Delta-9 THC. But, there are small amounts of Delta-8 THC as well.
Most Delta-8 THC products available today are made via a conversion of CBD from hemp into Delta-8 via a laboratory process, and stay within the federal legal limit set by the 2018 Farm Bill.
Delta-8 THC is known for its calming effects, like better mood, light euphoria, and relaxation, without being too intense like the Delta-9 THC high can be for some users. Although technically federally legal, some states have their limits or bans on Delta-8 THC, so it’s best to check with your state laws before consumption.
Related: Delta-8 THC vs. Delta-9 THC: What’s the Difference Between These Two Cannabinoids?
How Drug Tests Work?
Most drug tests screen for THC metabolites, not the specific THC type used. These metabolites, especially THC-COOH, are produced when the body breaks down THC, no matter the cannabinoid it comes from.
Urine tests are the most commonly used drug tests, usually using an immunoassay that flags THC metabolites above a preset threshold. If that threshold is met, more detailed tests like GG-MS are used for confirmation.
With this in mind and considering Delta-8 and Delta-9’s similar chemical structure and the fact that they both break down into similar metabolites, they will be flagged by most standard drug tests, although the tests may not necessarily tell them apart.
Does Delta-8 Trigger a Positive Drug Test?
Yes, Delta-8 THC use can trigger a positive drug test since most tests aren’t able to distinguish between cannabinoids. They flag THC metabolites that are created in the body after using cannabinoids.
The National Drug Court Institute recommends avoiding Delta-8 THC in case of an upcoming drug test, and not only because Delta-8 THC is within a gray legal area and may show up on a drug test, but also because poor-quality Delta-8 products may contain Delta-9 too.
So, even if you use legal, hemp-derived Delta-8 products, you may still test positive on a drug test for work, legal, or medical reasons.
Related: How to Flush THC from Your System: Tips That Work
Factors That Affect Whether You’ll Test Positive
The research on the factors that influence the amount of time that Delta-8 THC stays in the body is scarce; however, there are known factors that influence how long Delta-9 THC remains in the system, and they might apply to Delta-8 as well.
1. Frequency of use
If you consume Delta-8 THC in higher doses more often, it’ll take longer for the body to break it down and for it to leave the system, resulting in a higher window of detection.
2. Your metabolism
Every person has a unique metabolism. So, some bodies will be naturally able to remove THC faster than the bodies of others.
3. Way of consumption
If you consume Delta-8 THC orally, for example, via edibles or tinctures, it may stay in your system a bit longer than some other ways of consumption, like smoking.
Related: Cart vs. Vape: What Is the Difference & Which One Is Better for You?
Can You Beat a Drug Test After Using Delta-8?
Despite anecdotal claims and claims by vendors selling detox programs that some products may help the body metabolize Delta-8 THC faster, there’s no research to back up these claims as being efficient for passing a drug test after Delta-8 use.
Moreover, in some cases, tampering with or making alterations to a test may result in serious consequences.
Moreover, standard drug tests scan for THC metabolites, so any recent use, from legal Delta-8 THC or another cannabinoid, may lead to a positive result. The only guaranteed way to be negative on a drug test is to abstain from THC products, including Delta-8 THC, for several days, weeks, or months before the test.
What If You Only Use Legal Hemp Products?
The legal status of a cannabinoid has nothing to do with whether Delta-8 THC will show up on a drug test or not. This is because drug tests flag THC metabolites that are created in the body during the breakdown of THC, and tests cannot distinguish between legal and illegal products.
So, whether you used Delta-9 THC or Delta-8 THC, or another cannabinoid, legal or not, it may still show up on a drug test. The only way to be negative is to pause use before a drug test.
Related: Is Delta-8 THC Legal in All 50 States? A State-by-State Guide
Advice for Consumers
If you use Delta-8 regularly and are scheduled for a drug test, here’s what you must know:
- Avoid full-spectrum products. Use only THC-free or broad-spectrum products if you must.
- Buy products from brands that provide a detailed COA (Certificate of Analysis) that clearly shows the lab results and verifies THC content and product purity, and safety.
- Give your body enough time to metabolize the THC before the actual testing happens, especially if you use Delta-8 THC regularly.
- Legal isn’t necessarily test safe. Make sure you understand what you’re consuming and how it may affect your drug test results.
- If you’re unsure and if Delta-8 THC is part of your daily routine, discuss your situation with a trusted professional like a legal advisor to get a better picture of your rights and potential risks.
Final Thoughts
Despite being legal in many states, Delta-8 THC isn’t invisible to a drug test screening. Most drug tests cannot differentiate between cannabinoids, so a positive result is possible, even if the product is hemp-derived and compliant from a legal aspect.
If you’re in a position where drug testing is crucial, use Delta-8 THC with caution. Avoid using any THC products entirely to ensure a low risk of detection and avoid potential negative consequences.
FAQs
Is there a difference between Delta-8 and Delta-9?
Though they’re similar cannabinoids, produce a similar high, and may show up on a drug test, they have different chemical structures. Delta-8 THC is usually made in a lab, it’s not specified in the 2018 Farm Bill, and might be less potent than Delta-9.
Is Delta-8 Legal?
This cannabinoid’s status in the US is complicated. The 2018 Farm Bill made hemp legal and defined it as a plant with less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC per dry weight; however, it mentions only Delta-9 specifically, not Delta-8.
So, it’s somewhat of a legal gray zone cannabinoid. Many states have no current bans or limits on it as long as it’s from hemp; however, others have restricted it.
How long do the effects of Delta-8 last?
It depends on the type of product, way of consumption, and your metabolism, but they may last several hours.