Delta 8 is not very potent, but it will still show up on any drug screening for THC. Learn everything you need to know about Delta 8 THC in this article.
Does Delta 8 THC Show Up on a Drug Test? The Facts
People who want to try something more potent than CBD products often consider Delta 8 THC. However, individuals who have to undergo routine or surprise drug tests are often hesitant. They wonder if there’s such a thing as a Delta 8 THC drug test or they ask, “Does Delta 8 THC show up on a drug test?”. In this article, we’ll discuss exactly what Delta 8 is and whether it shows up on drug tests.
What Is Delta 8?
Delta 8 is a cannabinoid that’s derived from cannabis or hemp plants. It is available in much smaller amounts than Delta 9 or regular THC. Though similar to Delta 9 in its molecular structure, Delta 8 results in a milder, more prolonged high. The user experiences a boost in energy rather than a groggy feeling and they’re less likely to feel anxious or paranoid.
How Does a Delta 8 THC Drug Test Work?
Drug tests look for a metabolite called THC-COOH. A metabolite is what results when a drug is broken down in the body, processed, converted into other chemicals, and then eliminated. While THC leaves the body pretty quickly, the metabolite is stored in the fat cells and it stays in the body longer.
There are multiple ways in which a drug test can be carried out but urine tests are most popular. If your urine contains 50 nanograms or more of THC-COOH per milliliter, it will trigger a positive test result. How long does Delta 8 THC show up in urine? THC metabolites can typically be detected in your urine for 3 to 15 days after you use cannabis.
If you get involved in a car accident or you’re suspected of driving while intoxicated, you may be subjected to a blood test. How long does THC show up in a blood test? THC metabolites can usually be detected in the blood for a day or two after use. However, they can stay around for a lot longer in heavy users.
Tests of the hair and saliva are less common, but they are also an option.
Does Delta 8 Show up on a Drug Test?
The answer is yes. You may have noticed that we didn’t distinguish between Delta 8 and Delta 9 metabolites. That’s because both cannabinoids break down in the same way. The test will detect the presence of metabolites regardless of which type of THC you used.
How to Avoid a Positive Test
Now that you know Delta 8 THC can appear on a drug test, you may be wondering how to avoid a positive test. The only foolproof way to avoid a positive Delta 8 drug test is to stay away from THC in any form. However, this is probably not the solution you’re looking for. Let’s look at some of the things people try to rid their bodies of THC metabolites.
Some people recommend drinking large amounts of water to flush THC metabolites from your system ahead of a Delta 8 THC drug test. This may involve drinking up to two gallons of water daily ahead of a test. Unfortunately, research shows that only 20 percent of THC metabolites leave the body in the urine. However, more than 65 percent are removed via feces. Despite this, excessive laxative use may be harmful, so this isn’t recommended.
Another popular suggestion is to consume one of the many detox drinks available. One of the ingredients is pectin, which is believed to get rid of THC. However, reviews of these drinks are mixed and you’ll still need to drink a lot of water to try to pass a Delta 8 drug test.
It is also recommended that you avoid exercising within 24 hours of a Delta 8 drug test. The reason for this is that exercising can break down fat cells. If you recall, this is where THC metabolites are stored. Exercising may release them into your system, resulting in a spike just before you take the test.
Keep in mind that there’s no guarantee that these methods will result in a negative Delta 8 THC drug test. Several factors determine how long it takes for your body to process and eliminate the metabolites.
How Long Does Delta 8 Stay in Your System?
People often assume that THC has left their body when they’re no longer feeling the effects but this is far from true. Even though Delta 8 is less potent than Delta 9, it will stay in the body for a long time. The amount of THC you used and the frequency with which you use it will play a role in whether a Delta 8 drug test picks it up. A lot also depends on your metabolism and the amount of body fat you have.
Even if you only used Delta 8 THC once, it could stay in your system for up to a week. If you’re a regular, heavy user, a Delta 8 drug test may detect metabolites for two months or even longer after your last use.
The Bottom Line on the Delta 8 THC Drug Test
You now have the answer to the question “does Delta 8 THC show up on a drug test?”. Even though the effects are different, Delta 8 THC is quite similar to Delta 9 in its molecular structure and it is broken down in the same way. Therefore, the resulting THC metabolites will be detectable on any standard drug test. While people try various things to get the metabolites out of their system, nothing is guaranteed. If you’re likely to be drug-tested, it’s best to abstain.
If you’re not worried about a Delta 8 THC drug test, check out the wide selection of premium Delta 8 THC we sell in our store.
