Everyone in the cannabis world is talking about delta-8 THC (D8), a cannabis derivative that has captured the imagination of CBD and THC enthusiasts worldwide. People are rushing to try out this new product, but as its popularity grows, so do the questions. 

People are curious to know how this new THC product will influence them, whether it is legal, and if delta-8 THC shows up on a drug test. Here, we will take you through all of these queries and explore different dimensions of THC drug testing, including its metabolism pathway, longevity of detectability, and legal status. 

First things first: Yes, delta-8 THC will likely be detected in a drug test, even though specialised tests for D8 are not available yet. This is because most tests available in the market have been developed to detect delta-9 THC only before delta-8 THC was available for widespread use.

The delta-8 products available in the market usually have traces of delta-9 THC and other cannabis leftover chemicals. These can cause you to fail a drug test. On the other hand, highly specialised technology is available, which can show that you have used delta-8 THC and not delta-9 THC. Still, it is not commonly employed because of costs and limited resources.  

What is Delta-8 THC?

Let’s start with the basics. To fully understand whether delta-8 THC will show up on a drug test, you first have to understand what it is and how it may affect you. Delta-8 THC is a type of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This part of the cannabis sativa plant is psychoactive but is present in meagre quantities naturally. For commercial purposes, it is primarily made from another cannabis component called CBD. Both of these forms of THC cause the user to feel a “high” though the high from the D8 variant is less potent. 

Delta-8 THC has been associated with a range of benefits and effects. Research shows that it could potentially have the following effects:

• Euphoria or feeling of joy
• Increased relaxation
• Difficulty thinking 
• Slurred speech
• Visual distortions

Many people use D8 for medicinal benefits. However, not much research is present to prove this to be true. Most people who self-medicate with delta-8 THC use it for:

• Stress relief & depression
• Chronic pain
• Depression
• Mental health disorders like bipolar disorder 

How Does Delta-8 THC Work? 

Delta-8 THC works by engaging the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the human body. It is a cell signalling system that the body uses to communicate internally. It regulates various functions like mood, sleep, memory, appetite, and even fertility. The system works even if you do not use cannabis. The three main parts of the system are the endocannabinoids (naturally occurring chemicals in the body), receptors, and enzymes. 

Delta-8 THC engages this system by binding to receptors in the said system. The binding of the molecules with receptors signals the system to take different actions. The two main types of receptors in the said system include CB1 and CB2 receptors. The CB1 receptors are primarily present in the central nervous system, while the CB2 is mainly found in the extended or peripheral nervous system. When D8 interacts with the receptors, it can signal the body to do several things. One of the reactions can be the production of “happy hormones” or neurotransmitters called dopamine and serotonin. This can mean changes in mood, pain perception, appetite, and memory.  

Science Behind Delta-8 THC Drug Testing

People who are new to D8 use can have several concerns. One of these is the probability of it appearing on a drug test. The simple answer to this question is: Yes, delta-8 THC can show up in drug tests if one is performed by your employer or an officer of the law. 

We recommend that you avoid D8 use before you have to be tested, as its use is only acceptable due to the loophole in the law where other such products are allowed. Some products from unreliable manufacturers may have impurities from delta-9 THC that may also influence your test results. Most of the drug tests performed look for other forms of THC and cannabis products. 

Here, we will detail how you may be tested for the presence of THC or cannabis products. 

Common Drug Tests for Delta-8 THC

Delta-8 THC can be detected for different periods depending on which type of drug test is being performed, how frequently delta-8 THC is used, and other factors. These are the common types of drug tests used: 

Urine Test

The most common method of testing is through urine samples. During such testing, you will first be given a small cup to pee in behind closed doors. Sometimes, an officer may stand in the room looking in the other direction to avoid anyone tampering with the test. The cup holds nearly 30ml of urine sample. After you hand over the sample, the drug test can either be performed right there or sent to a laboratory. If it is sent away, you have 2 to 3 days before the result returns. 

Blood Test

Blood tests designed to detect the use of cannabis work by first getting a blood sample from you and then performing tests on it in a laboratory. For the sample, a professional will first take your arm, swab it near a vein with an alcoholic pad for sanitary reasons, and then use a needle to prick you. After this, a small blood volume will be collected in a vial or test tube. The container is then sent to a lab, which will likely return the result in 24 to 36 hours.

Hair Test 

During a hair drug test, your hair is cut as close to the scalp as possible. It is usually done near the nape of the neck, but that does not affect the test results. This is done only for not doing any cosmetic damage. Each strand is inspected one by one to see signs of drug use. This type of test is based on the principle that any cannabinoids you have used will reach the hair follicles through the pathway of blood vessels, leaving a sign behind. The hair follicle test can be pretty accurate. The results can be made available in a day or two. 

Saliva Test

Saliva or mouth swab tests are often used as a more accessible alternative to urine drug tests. This is because they are easier to administer, and the samples can be collected by a lab technician and not behind a closed door. This makes it very difficult to be tampered with. Law enforcement agencies or an employer can use them before hiring you. Plus, they are up to 98 percent accurate. 

During the test, a collection stick is used. The stick with the absorbent pad is used to swab the cheek from the inside. The sample is then taken to a lab or sometimes even analysed before you. In some cases, the results can be quick and provided on the spot; however, if the sample is being sent to the laboratory, it can take at least 24 hours before the results come in. 

How Long is Delta-8 THC Detectable in a Drug Test? 

Delta-8 THC can be detectable in different parts of your body for different amounts of time. This means that based on where and in which form of a sample is collected, it can impact your drug test results. As long as the D8 is present in your body, it will show up in the results. Here is how long delta-8 THC is detectable in a drug test based on its type: 

Urine

Cannabis and its products can stay in the urine samples for different amounts of time based on usage. A review found that when used once, the drug test can be positive if the sample is given in the next three days. It can be detected for up to 5 or 7 days for moderate use, such as consuming on alternate days. For people who use these products daily, their urine sample can test positive for 15 days. People who use cannabis products daily multiple times need to stop using it for 30 days straight to test negative again. 

Blood

Blood tests for D8 are your best bet when you want to avoid a positive drug test. If you have used such a product only once or twice, the test will come up clean if you give the sample after 12 hours of last use. However, the same cannot be said about chronic users. For them, the drug test can end up positive even after 30 days of last use.

Hair

Hair can carry signs of drug use for an extended period. Hair follicle tests can detect that you have used delta-8 up to 90 days after last use. 

Saliva 

If you are giving a saliva sample, remember that it can show you using D8 up to 24 hours after last use. For people who smoke marijuana frequently, delta-8 can even be detected with the help of a saliva drug test after 72 hours of use. 

What Factors Affect Delta-8 THC Metabolism in the Body?

Human metabolism is a process by which the body utilises, breaks down, and repurposes different energy molecules. When you consume food, medicine, or recreational drugs, your body breaks it down into small pieces. Most drug tests check for these smaller pieces to see if you have consumed anything deemed illegal. 

This means that faster metabolism will destroy these resulting chemical traces quicker, and anything that increases your rate of metabolism can have a positive impact, meaning you might end up not testing positive for D8 in your system. Here are some of the factors that influence the results: 

Metabolic Rate

Everyone’s metabolic rate is different based on race, gender, genetics, and other factors. So, you are most likely to metabolise the delta-8 THC faster if you have an active and fast metabolic rate. 

Use Frequency

Your consumption rate for delta-8 THC matters a lot regarding how long it stays in your body. When you consume D8 daily and regularly, it can start to build up in your system, regardless of the method of consumption. People who use it occasionally can pass out metabolites from it in a matter of days, but those with regular usage may have it in their systems for longer.  

Age 

Your age can influence how many metabolites you can clear out of your system daily. As we age, our ability to break down delta-8 decreases. This means if you are older, you may have D8 in your system longer, affecting drug test results. 

BMI

The Body Mass Index of any individual also affects the metabolism of delta-8. When your BMI is high, you are more likely to store delta-8 and its resulting leftover molecules in those fat cells. This means the higher the number of fat cells, the more likely you are to carry D8 within them, slowing the metabolism process. 

Health History

People with chronic health issues may have dysfunctional metabolic processes. For example, if you have any issue with your kidney or liver, your body may not be able to clear out delta-8 products from the body. Plus, the drugs people consume for these health issues may also affect how delta-8 THC is processed in your body. 

Mental Health

Mental health also plays an important role here. People undergoing stress and anxiety can have slower metabolic rates. This means you are more likely to carry delta-8 THC by-products in your body for longer durations in case of mental health issues. 

Method of Consumption 

People who use edible forms of D8 tend to carry THC by-products longer in their bodies compared to those who prefer to vape or smoke it. This is especially pronounced in those who might be tested through saliva drug testing.

Can Anything Speed Up the Metabolic Breakdown of Delta-8 THC?

Let us start by telling you that none of these suggestions are guaranteed to help you flush out delta-8 THC from your body. However, in some cases, these methods can help the body get rid of metabolites faster. Here are some of the ways that might help you increase your chances of clearing your delta-8 THC metabolites:

• Increased hydration 
• Exercise or increased physical activity
• Consumption of antioxidant-rich foods
• Steam room or saunas
• Natural detox remedies or supplements

Is Delta-8 THC Use Legal?

Drug tests are usually performed to check for the presence of illegal substances in your body. This means the legality of any substance is a significant factor to consider before consuming it. For delta-8 THC and other cannabis, the rules can differ, depending upon which part of the world you are in. Here is the legal status of delta-8 THC in different geographical locations:

United Kingdom

Any delta-8 THC products or any other products carrying D8 as impurities are not legal in the United Kingdom. It is considered to be a Class B drug under the United Kingdom laws. It means that you cannot legally consume, distribute, produce, or possess it in any shape or form. If caught with it, the maximum penalty under the law is a 5-year sentence, exemplary, or in some cases, both. If you are involved in production or supply, you can end up in prison for up to 14 years, a fine, or both. Buying any such product online is also considered illegal. 

United States

In the United States, the legality of delta-8 THC can differ based on the state you are in. Currently, 22 states consider delta-8 THC legal, plus 1 District. It has limited regulation. The possession, distribution, or consumption penalty also varies according to different states. If you reside in the United States, a good idea is to check your state laws before consumption. 

Canada

Cannabis and its associated products like CBD and THC are legal in Canada but are subject to individual provincial guidelines. The age and amount allowed per person may vary according to geographical areas. However, you still cannot enter Canada while carrying these products.

Australia

In Australia, you cannot possess, distribute, sell, or use cannabis under the law. This includes delta-8 THC as well. CBD is only allowed under prescription use and delta-9 THC is allowed for some regulated conditions.

Other Countries

Europe

Delta-8 THC is legal in most European countries, but you cannot enter every country with it. The European Court has classified CBD as a novel food. This means CBD use is legal and delta-8 products need to be pre-approved by the European Commission, meaning all such approved products are legal to use. It has also dismissed a case where the classification of delta-8 THC under the law was challenged. However, the status can change at any time in case of significant changes in drug enforcement rules. 

Asia

In Asia, the use of delta-8 and its legal status varies in different countries. China has banned its use since 2022. In Japan, it is only legal if it is extracted from natural plants. South Korea has classified it as a psychotropic drug and an illegal substance. Taiwan, Thailand, the Philippines, India, and Pakistan have not yet classified it, making it a legal grey area.

Middle East, Africa and Latin America

Most Middle Eastern countries have a complete ban on cannabis and all forms of THC. The possession and use can land you in a prison, including Saudi Arabia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates. Lebanon is the only Arab country that has legalised cannabis use but its stance on delta-8 is still not clear. Similarly, in Africa and Latin America, D8 use is mostly illegal or a legal grey area.

Takeaway

Delta-8 THC can end up on a drug test. Most drug tests check for the presence of delta-9 THC, but as both of these chemicals are exceptionally structurally similar, the test cannot differentiate between the two. This means that you may end up testing positive if you have only consumed delta-8 THC or a product with D8 impurities. In some cases, if you have only consumed other cannabis products, a test may end up positive. So, if you have a drug test coming up or are scheduled to have one periodically, it is a good idea to avoid delta-8 THC altogether before getting tested.