Does CBD Cause False Positives on Drug Tests?
Cannabidiol (CBD) should not show up on a drug test, but most people have heard those horror stories of someone failing their employment drug screening because of CBD. So, what’s the real deal? Will CBD cause a false positive on drug tests? Should you be worried if you use CBD? Here’s what you need to know.
Does CBD show up on a drug test?
Pure CBD shouldn’t show up on a drug test, but if your CBD product contains any THC, then it might. THC is marijuana’s main active ingredient – the one responsible for the “high” effect. While CBD doesn’t get you high, many CBD products do contain trace amounts of THC. This might be due to the following reasons:1
- The type of CBD products (some have THC – we list a few in the section below)
- Unreliable or “shady” CBD product suppliers that do not monitor the THC levels in their product
- Incorrect labeling misrepresenting the amount of THC
- Untested or improperly tested CBD product batches that contain too much THC
If you use CBD regularly, it is possible that trace amounts may build up in your system. So, depending on the composition and quality of the product you’re using, you could have a positive drug test result even though you’re not actively using marijuana.
Also, outmoded or “old” drug tests often do not distinguish between CBD and THC, so if you take one of those you could test positive for marijuana.
How do I know what CBD products to use?
Different CBD products have different THC levels. Here’s a breakdown of the products, so you can choose the best option for your circumstances.2
- Full-spectrum CBD. Full-spectrum CBD has numerous other cannabinoid compounds from the cannabis plant. This also includes low levels of THC (less than 0.3 percent on a dry weight basis).
- Broad-spectrum CBD. This type of CBD contains additional compounds from the cannabis plant. It does contain THC, but it might only have trace amounts.
- CBD isolate. This option contains only CBD. If you wish to avoid THC altogether, this is your best option.
How long does CBD stay in your system?
On average, CBD stays in your system for 2 to 5 days.3 However, some factors, including diet and physiology, can impact this time range. For some, CBD can stay in their system for weeks. So, if you plan to take CBD and have an upcoming drug test, a CBD Isolate would be the safest option.
What factors can impact how long CBD is in my system?3
- Quantity: A higher dose of CBD will stay in your system longer.
- Frequency: CBD builds up in the body over time. Thus, if you use it regularly, then it will be in your system for longer. If you only use it occasionally, it will clear your system faster.
- Food: If you take CBD with food, then it slows digestion. If you take CBD on an empty stomach, then it gets metabolized and eliminated faster.
- Method of use: The method of use will also determine how fast or slow it is to get out of the body. For example, your digestive system must metabolize edible forms of CBD, and this can take time. Cream and lotions also take time to enter and leave the body. Vaping CBD, on the other hand, takes effect quickly and leaves your body quickly. Oils and tinctures are absorbed into the bloodstream faster and linger longer.
- Your body: Just like alcohol impacts each individual differently, CBD has a varied effect depending on who uses it. Your body mass index (BMI), water content, and metabolism are a few of the ways aspects that can influence how your body handles CBD.
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Overall, if you’re using high-quality CBD Insolate product from a reputable supplier and not exceeding the recommended dosage, you should not have to worry too much about failing an up-to-date drug test.
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SOURCES:
1. https://sundayscaries.com/blog/does-cbd-show-up-on-drug-test/
3. https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-does-cbd-stay-in-your-system#drug-testing