Delta-8 THC: What You Need to Know About Drug Testing

Cannabis plants are known to contain a variety of cannabinoids, each with unique effects on the human body. Two of the most common cannabinoids are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). While most of the THC in cannabis is delta-9 THC, small amounts of delta-8 THC are also present. Both delta-9 and delta-8 THC are intoxicating, meaning they can get you high.

If you’re going to be tested for drugs, it’s important to know that delta-8 THC can show up on a drug test. The amount of time it remains detectable can vary depending on the type of test used, the frequency of use, and other factors.

The National Drug Court Institute recommends avoiding delta-8 THC if you’re going to be tested for drugs. Just as the courts can prohibit the consumption of poppy seeds because it might cause a positive drug test for opioids, treatment courts could ban the use of delta-8. If you’re looking for a way to use cannabis that can’t be detected by a drug test, delta-8 isn’t the solution.

While there’s no research suggesting that delta-8 THC is detectable for a different period of time than regular THC, it can be detected via drug testing for different periods of time depending on the kind of test used, the frequency of delta-8 use, and your own metabolism.

How Long is Delta-8 THC Detectable by Drug Testing?

Urine Test

Urine testing is the most common drug testing method and can typically detect cannabis use up to 30 days after it was last used. A 2017 review found that cannabis may be detectable in urine for different amounts of time depending on usage frequency. For instance, single use can be detected for up to 3 days, while chronic heavy use can be detected for more than 30 days.

Blood Test

Blood tests typically only detect cannabis use within the past 2 to 12 hours. However, in people who use cannabis often and heavily, it’s been detected up to 30 days after last use.

Saliva Test

A saliva test can detect THC up to 24 hours after it has been consumed. However, a 2020 review with people who frequently smoked cannabis found that THC was still detected in saliva 72 hours after use.

Hair Test

Hair follicle tests can detect THC up to 90 days after it has been used. These tests work because cannabinoids reach the hair follicles via blood vessels after you use cannabis.

In conclusion, the duration of delta-8 THC detection via drug testing varies depending on several factors. It is important to note that drug testing laws and regulations vary by state and country, so it is always best to consult with a medical professional or legal expert for guidance.