CBD or Cannabidiol does not show in drug tests, but if it has traces of delta-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) — the test will be positive.
Is it likely?
When tested for drugs, CBD is undetectable. However, some products contain traces of THC, marijuana’s active compound. Even though Cannabidiol comes from hemp— the same plant where marijuana comes from— CBD should pass a drug test. THC delta-tetrahydrocannabinol is an active compound that makes people high. CBD products are THC-free or contain a small amount, not more than 0.03% THC Law. In some cases, it has yielded positive results—so, if you are worried about it.
This article will enlighten you on why your drug results may be positive and what to look for in a CBD product to prevent this issue.
How do drug tests detect THC in the body?
Canadian rule for drug tests for cannabis aims to detect THC, not CBD. Few types of drug tests confirm the presence of cannabis. One of the routine tests is an immunoassay. Here, the patient’s urine or bodily fluid examines to discover the degree of impairment.
Drug tests can detect THC for three days after a single use and more than 30 days if you are a regular user. Since THC is fat-soluble, it stores in body fat before being gradually released into the bloodstream.
Understanding the different types of drug tests and their sensitivity to THC
The drug tests screen for cannabis active compound— THC-COOH or THC.
The Mayo Clinic says, since 2017, federal occupational drug test cut-off values establish to reduce the possibility that minute amounts of THC may result in positive findings. In short, a positive drug test result doesn’t mean there is THC or THC-COOH present.
Instead, a negative test shows that you have THC present below the cutoff value. Here are different methods.
Urine
The urine test is the most common one, stated above, especially in workplaces. In urine tests, THC must be 50 Nanograms per millimeter to test positive. THC is detectable in urine for 3 to 15 days after usage. But heavier may be detectable for more than 30 days.
Blood
Blood tests are less to be done than urine tests for drug screening because THC is quickly eliminated in the bloodstream but remains for up to 5 hours in plasma and is detectable for up to seven days.
THC blood levels of 1, 2, or 5 ng/mL are indicative of impairment. Some states have zero-tolerance policies.
Saliva
Saliva testing isn’t common, and there are no cut-off limits when the testing is through saliva. THC is detectable in fluids for up to 72 hours, but with heavy use, it stays longer.
Hair
Hair testing is uncommon, as it does not have any cut-off limits established with it.
The private industry cut-off is 1pg/mg of THC-COOH. In hair, THC is noticeable for up to 90 days.
What is the difference between CBD and THC?
Cannabis Sativa is a versatile plant— useful for various purposes ranging from food, hemp seed, hemp-based construction material, and medicinal or recreational uses.
People often perceive THC and CBD to be the same. But you will be amazed to know that researchers have found more than 400 chemical compounds in cannabis plants, of which only 80 are biologically active. Some known compounds are Cannabidiol, THC, cannabigerol, and cannabichromene (CBG and CBN).
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a marijuana-derived psychotropic substance that is euphoric. CBD does not possess such effects, hence considered to help treat various medical conditions like depression or anxiety.
The Food and Drug Administration FDA has stated that any product containing THC more than 0.03% is illegal, and DEA has listed them as a Schedule I drug.
THC binds to the receptors of different brain receptors and impairs short-term memory, judgment, or sensation, causing euphoria, panic, paranoia, etc.
CBD does not tend to act like THC and does not get attached to the brain receptors. Instead, it helps to bind to serotonin receptors to boost memory and alleviate mood. However, scientists are still trying to establish grounds on this topic.
CBD has proven beneficial in animal and human preliminary studies and has shown potential therapeutic effects, including reducing pain, and inflammation, controlling anxiety, and paranoia, promoting neurological protection, and preventing vomiting.
Can using CBD products cause a positive drug test for THC?
Yes, there is a risk of false positive drug tests from CBD use. Several potential reasons why CBD products might cause a positive result for THC.
Cross-contamination
There are chances of cross-contamination in the manufacturing unit as there are traces of THC. They are more likely to happen if manufacturers are preparing products containing CBD only, THC only, or a combination of both.
The same applies at home or store. If CBD oil states THC, the possibilities are more.
Salvaged Exposure
It is unlikely to achieve positive results from used marijuana smoke, but it is possible. The amount of THC absorbed by you depends on the potency of marijuana, size, and ventilation of the area.
Mislabeled Product
CBD products aren’t controlled by the federal government regularly, hence, third-party testing is required to determine the exact content.
A 2017 Netherlands study stated that out of 84 CBD samples purchased online, researchers found THC in 18 samples. It shows that many companies make false statements and mislead customers. Although, more research is required on American CBD products.
How to make sure that CBD product does not contain THC?
Some CBD products ensure high quality, safety, and potency. If you are a CBD user, take out some time to evaluate what goes in your bottle. To know how to be sure that your product is THC-free. Read the below points.
Read product details
Check your product source— marijuana or hemp. Also, check whether your CBD is full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolated.
It is detailed in the ingredient lists and available on the manufacturer’s website. If this information is unclear, it is a sign of misleading or false information— give it a skip.
Check for CBD potency
Knowing CBD concentration per dose is a good idea. It varies according to the product type, whether its oil, tincture, edible, or application based.
The more concentrated the CBD is, the more costly it will be. However, start with the smaller dosage.
Find Hemp source
Hemp quality varies from state to state due to guidelines and constituency. If your hemp source is from reputable states like Colorado or Oregon, you can be assured about the quality, as these states have longstanding hemp industries with rigorous testing guidelines. If there is no information about the hemp, contact the seller.
Do some research
When buying CBD products, look for these things:
- USDA certified
- 100% organic
- CO2 extracted
- No additives, fillers, or preservatives
- Solvent Free
- Contains third-party lab testing certificate
- Decarboxylated
However, in some cases, it is tough to prove these things true. The best way is to check genuine positive reviews on websites and find lab results associated with the manufacturer.
Avoid Products Making False Health Claims
There is only one FDA-Approved medicine, Epidiolex, used for treating epilepsy. It is only available via medical prescription. Other CBD products hold no certification or FDA approval to assess safety and effectiveness in treating mental health problems.
Therefore, if any seller claims their product to be beneficial for health issues. They are breaching the law, and you should think twice before purchasing. Some factors can affect the likelihood of testing positive for THC. So beware!
How long THC stays in the body after using CBD products?
CBD stays in your system for a week. However, it depends on usage and type of product. If you are a regular CBD oil user, it may last longer in your body.
CBD with THC less than 0.03% will fail you in a drug test. You shouldn’t be concerned.
What to do if you test positive for THC after using CBD products?
If you are tested positive for THC after using CBD products, it means one or more drugs are present. Positive tests require follow-up testing as they are sometimes false due to CBD, hemp food products, HIV medication, pain relievers, or some vitamin B supplements containing hemp seed oil.
You need to be aware of cannabis laws in your region because of the legality of using CBD products and drug testing in different countries and industries.
In Summary
CBD does not show up in regular drug tests.
You should be aware that federal rules do not regularly oversee this business, making it difficult to determine if the product you are buying is completely devoid of THC residues.
If you wish to buy a THC-free product, always look up to a reliable source and branded manufacturer. Do not fall for false claims or low-price ads.