Delta-8 is a potent cannabinoid quickly gaining popularity for its various benefits. Unlike Delta-9 THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, Delta-8 does not produce the same “high” feeling. However, it provides many of the same benefits, including relaxation, pain relief, and overall well-being. 

One of the questions we get asked most often is whether or not Delta-8 shows up on a drug test. The simple answer is that it depends on the test. Check out our guide to learn more about how Delta-8 can affect drug tests.

How Drug Tests Work

After taking a substance for medical or recreational use, the body metabolizes it and breaks it down into smaller molecules called metabolites. When your liver metabolizes drugs, the leftover metabolites stay in various bodily fluids and tissues, including saliva, blood, hair, and urine.

Though you may no longer feel the Delta-8 THC’s effects, its chemical presence can still be detected in these locations and trigger a positive result on a drug test.

Drug tests are designed to look for specific substances in your body, including THC — the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. However, there are different drug tests, each looking for particular things.

For example, urine tests, the most common drug test, detect THC metabolites — compounds your body creates when it breaks down THC. Meanwhile, saliva, blood, and hair tests are designed to look for different compounds, including Delta-9 THC and its analogs.

What substances can drug tests detect? 

The majority of drug tests can detect the following substances:

• Alcohol
• Barbiturates
• Amphetamines
• Cocaine
• Benzodiazepines
• Opioids
• Marijuana (Delta 9 THC)

So, will Delta-8 test positive?

Simply put – YES! Delta-8 can still show up on a drug test, depending on how recent your last use was and the type of drug test administered to you.

Urine tests, the most common type of drug testing in workplaces, aren’t advanced enough to differentiate delta 8 and 9 THC. The test will find both drugs because they are the same metabolite (THC-COOH).

Avoid using all types of delta-8 THC if you have an upcoming drug test. The only way to guarantee a negative result is to stop using any cannabis product for some time before the test.

How long does Delta-8 stay in your system?

Delta-8 stays in your system for up to two days to a month, depending on how much and how often you use it. The half-life of Delta-8 is 24 hours, meaning it takes a full day for your body to break down half of the Delta-8 in your system.

The time it takes for your body to metabolize and excrete Delta-8 varies depending on individual factors, such as weight and metabolism. Generally speaking, the heavier you are, the longer it will stay in your system.

How long will Delta-8 show up on a drug test?

The time a drug test can detect Delta-8 THC in your system depends on the type of test used, how often you use it, and your metabolism. Here are the timeframes for detection:

Urine Test

The most common type of drug test, the urine test, can detect Delta-8 for up to 30 days after use. According to a 2017 review, you can detect cannabis in urine within the following ranges:

• Single-use: 1-3 days
• Frequent use (four times per week): 5–7 days
• Chronic use (daily): 10-15 days
• Heavy use (multiple times per day): more than 30 days

Saliva Test

Delta-8 will appear on a saliva test up to 24 hours after consumption. However, a 2020 review of regular cannabis users found that the test can detect THC in saliva up to 72 hours after use.

Blood Test

The shortest detection window is with a blood test, which can detect Delta-8 within 2 to 12 hours after use. However, it can still find Delta-8 in heavy users up to 30 days after their last use.

Hair Test

The most extended detection window is with a hair test, which can detect Delta-8 up to three months after the last use. However, it’s important to note that hair tests are not usually used to identify workplace drug use.

Factors Affecting Delta-8 Detection Times

The amount of time Delta-8 stays in your system is also affected by a few other factors:

• Type of Test: As mentioned above, the type of test used will affect how long Delta-8 is detectable in your system.
• Metabolism: Your metabolism affects how quickly your body breaks down and excretes Delta-8.
• Frequency of Use: The more you use Delta-8, the longer it stays in your system.
• Weight: Generally speaking, heavier individuals have a slower metabolism and take longer to metabolize and excrete Delta-8.

How to Rid Delta-8 From Your System

If you need to get rid of Delta-8 in your system quickly, here are a few tips to do so:

• Drink plenty of water. Drinking at least 2.5 liters of water helps flush out the Delta-8 in your system through sweating or urination.
• Exercise. Work out at least 30-45 minutes daily to help your body metabolize and excrete Delta-8 through sweating.
• Eat healthy foods. Eating nutrient-rich foods helps increase your metabolism and aid in the detoxification process.
• Eat detoxifying foods. Eating cruciferous vegetables helps your body detox by increasing the production of enzymes that help break down Delta-8.
• Avoid using other drugs/alcohol. Other drugs and alcohol slow your metabolism and detoxification.

What Delta-8 alternatives can you try to pass a drug test?

If you must pass a drug test but want to continue using Delta-8, consider trying CBD. 

CBD does not contain Delta-9 THC, the active ingredient in marijuana that is tested for on drug tests. It is legal in all 50 states and does not appear on drug screenings.

CBD is available in many forms, such as oils, tinctures, topicals, and edibles. You can also try other hemp products, such as hemp extracts, which contain trace amounts of Delta-9 THC but not enough to make you fail a drug test.

CBD products are available in many health stores, online retailers, and dispensaries. Conduct your research before buying any CBD product to ensure it meets legal requirements in your area.

As with any substance, it is important to exercise caution and take proper safety measures when using Delta-8 alternatives. This is especially true if you’re pregnant, nursing, or taking medication.

Additionally, read the product labels carefully and check for potential side effects before consuming.

Other Delta-8 THC Frequently Asked Questions

Does Delta-8 cause a high?

Yes, Delta-8 can produce psychoactive effects and cause you to feel “high.” However, they are much milder than those of Delta-9 THC.

What’s the difference between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC?

Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC have the same chemical composition. However, Delta-8 has a different structure, which makes it have a lower affinity for CB1 receptors. This is why it’s less potent.

Is Delta-8 legal?

Yes, Delta-8 is federally legal in the United States as long as it’s derived from hemp plants containing less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC. However, some states have regulations regarding the sale and possession of Delta-8, so it’s critical to check your local laws before using it.

What states is Delta-8 illegal in?

Delta-8 is banned in Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Arizona, Arkansas, Iowa, Delaware, Mississippi, Montana, Rhode Island, and Utah. It’s essential you check your local laws before using Delta-8 in any of these states.

What are the effects of Delta-8?

Delta-8’s effects vary from person to person, but the most common include an improvement in mood, relaxation, and an increase in appetite. Some also report feeling energized or creative.

How long does it take for the effects of delta-8 to be felt?

This depends on the form of Delta-8 you choose to ingest. Generally speaking, you will feel the effects almost immediately if you inhale it and up to 2 hours later if consumed as an edible.

What types of products contain Delta-8?

Delta-8 is available in various forms, including edibles, tinctures, capsules, vapes, and topicals. You can also find it in flower form, as well as concentrates and distillates.

Key Takeaways

Knowing the detection window for different types of drug tests can help you prepare if you ever have to take one. It’s best to abstain from using it if you think you may have to take one soon.

Additionally, drinking plenty of water and regular exercise can help rid your system of Delta-8 THC. Familiarize yourself with its effects and forms before using it, as well as the laws in your state.

As with any recreational drug, it’s essential always to use Delta-8 responsibly and in moderation. With this knowledge in mind, you can enjoy the effects of Delta-8 THC safely and confidently

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