Many standard drug tests don’t distinguish between delta-8 and delta-9 THC, it’s possible for delta-8 to show up on a drug test. The fact that this comes as a shock to many people who think that delta-8 is entirely different from conventional marijuana testing is because it is sometimes sold and marketed differently. Being familiar with the effects of delta 8 THC, how it affects your body, and how long does delta 8 stay in your system can be the key to making the right decision before testing. This blog explains the process of detection, the time it can stay in your system, and what tests are most likely to detect delta-8.
What is Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and what impact does it have on the body?
Delta-8 THC is a naturally occurring cannabinoid in the cannabis plant that is chemically related to delta-9 THC, the compound that causes intoxication when consumed in marijuana. But, in most cases, delta-8 has a more subdued impact. It is available in products such as gummies, vape products, and oils. It’s sometimes promoted as a legal substitute for marijuana, but the effects and safety of these products, and their legality, vary from product to product and state to state.
While it’s not quite the same as the more famous delta-9 THC in regular marijuana, yes, delta-8 can certainly show up on a standard drug test. There are no specific tests for particular THC compounds; most drug tests identify THC metabolites in general. As a result, many of the leading drug tests will be positive when a consumer uses delta-8 products, sometimes without their knowledge. Anyone thinking about taking delta-8 should be truly conscious of this overlap before believing that it will have no impact whatsoever on test outcomes.
Delta-8 and Drug Test Results
Delta-8 and delta-9 THC have a very close chemical structure, and most drug tests are not capable of distinguishing between the two, so consuming delta-8 can result in a positive drug test.
How does delta-8 result in a positive drug test?
Most drug tests are performed on a general THC metabolite referred to as THC-COOH which is the metabolite created after THC compounds are metabolized in the body and may lead to a positive drug test result when taking Delta-8. Because delta-8 and delta-9-THC metabolize into very similar byproducts, it’s difficult for standard tests to tell the difference between the two. The question asked is not “what is delta 8”, but rather “how does the body process delta 8”. This means that even if products are legal or made from hemp, they may still lead to a positive drug test.
How Drug Tests Detect Delta-8 THC
- Tests are not looking for the THC compound itself but rather a metabolite from it.
- The chemical structure of delta-8 THC and delta-9 THC are very similar within the body.
- Most tests do not differentiate between different types of THC
- Labeling of hemp products does not assure a negative.
How long does the delta-8 remain in the body?
The duration that delta 8 remains in the body will vary from person to person, based on a set of personal factors, such as frequency of use, metabolism, body composition, and amount of delta 8 consumed. Delta-8 can pass from a person who uses it occasionally in a few days to one week. If a person is a regular or frequent user, it can remain for a few weeks, as the THC compounds accumulate in the fat tissue and gradually get released over time. The timeframe is never set, and this is true of each person in their own experience, meaning there’s really no way to be 100% certain of what will happen ahead of time.
Delta-8 Detection Times
The time required to detect the use of the drug depends on how often the drug is used, the number of doses, and the individual’s metabolism, and can range from a few days if the drug is used occasionally, to several weeks if the drug has been used regularly and frequently over time.
How can you be tested for delta-8?
Most drug tests are designed to screen for broad groups of metabolites, rather than specific drugs; several common drug tests are able to detect delta-8. One of the most popular tests is urine, which can detect the use of delta-8 fairly reliably. It can also be detected through blood and hair follicle tests, but with varying detection window and sensitivity. If you are researching what you need to know about drug tests before you are asked to take one, it can help you to know what type of drug test you are taking so that you can be prepared.
Drug tests that can identify Delta-8.
- Urine tests: generally, the most common and dependable way to detect most panels.
- Blood tests: much shorter detection window than other tests.
- Hair follicles: can be detected over time
- Saliva tests: Shorter-term detection option for recent use
When it comes to drug testing, it’s important to understand how Delta-8 might affect you before making any decisions. The drug testing services offered by Choice DNA are processed on CAP-accredited drug testing laboratories to provide you with accurate and reliable results of your drug test. In addition to drug testing, Choice DNA also provides families with paternity testing results when they need DNA paternity testing for answers and trusted results.
Take the First Step to Safety: Book Your Drug Testing Today!
Conclusion
Delta-8 is likely to appear on a standard drug test, as many tests are looking for THC, rather than particular compounds. Sometimes detection windows differ based on the usage and individual factors. To ensure accurate and reliable results, Choice DNA provides CAP-accredited drug testing and paternity DNA testing.
