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Can Taking Delta-8 Cause You to Fail a Drug Test?

Can Delta 8 Produce a Positive Drug Test Result?

In short, the answer is yes. delta-8 will make you fail a drug test. However, because Keystone can differentiate between delta-8 and delta-9, often those who test for delta-8 come up positive for delta-9. Some people refer to delta-8 as “marijuana-lite” because it’s potency is less than delta-9. If you are about to be tested, you should avoid utilizing products containing this substance. This includes everything from vapes to edibles. Delta-8 can be easily identified in urine. So, if you’ve recently used a delta-8 product and have taken a urine drug test, there’s a good possibility you’ll test positive.  This is because of how the body metabolizes it.  We offer some of the most extensive tests for THC, but to date, Keystone Lab is one of few toxicology testing laboratories in the country that offer delta 8 testing.

A Closer Look at Delta 8

Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol, sometimes known as delta-8 THC, is a chemical present in hemp and marijuana. Cannabis plants naturally produce this chemical. However, it is not abundant. The highest concentration of delta-8 is found in hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD).

The FDA does not regulate delta-8 THC products in any manner. In fact, this has become a bit of a problem in recent years. This is because the labeling of the delta-8 products could be misleading. No legislation governs labeling, dosing, testing, or child-resistant packaging. Because these products are widely available, the public is in danger due to the lack of these regulations.

Authorities are increasingly concerned about misleading product labeling and the safety of product formulation. Some marketers promote their products as potentially useful for medical or therapeutic purposes. However, without regulation, nobody knows exactly what is in the products. Cross-contamination of other chemicals is very possible. No actual testing and regulation of what goes into the products mean there is room for danger.

More information on Delta-8

The use of delta-8 THC products may result in serious side effects, some of which may necessitate medical intervention or hospitalization. Some people report nausea, anxiety, dizziness, hallucinations, and loss of consciousness.

The packaging of delta-8 items sold in stores or online is another source of concern. Cookies, sweets, and gummies are packaged and labeled in a way that appeals to children. Some stores that sell these products do not adhere to age restrictions, putting children’s safety in danger.

Is Delta 8 the Same as Delta 9?

Delta-8 and delta-9 have near identical chemical structures with the only difference being the location of one of the double bonds being shifted. Keystone Lab is able to properly differentiate delta-8 THC, delta-9 THC, and CBD metabolites. However, delta 8 is known to show up better in urine testing than in other types of tests. This is because of how the body metabolizes delta-8 THC. 

The distinction is that delta 8 is regarded as less powerful. As a result, its influence on the body is less potent than delta-9. Delta-8 produces a smoother, gentler high and, in some cases, no high at all.

In 2018, the Farm Bill was signed into law which made it legal for hemp to be grown and used for extractions. Because delta-8 comes from the Hemp plant, it’s considered a legal substance in many states. However, again, there aren’t any regulations on this drug.

What Are the Dangers of Using Delta 8?

Healthy people rarely run into health issues caused by delta-8. However, everyone is different. Because the FDA does not regulate it, it can come contaminated with other substances. You need to be careful where you get your delta-8 products. Be sure that you purchase only from a reputable company. Having no regulations means the product can be very dangerous.  

People who are not expecting the psychoactive effects of delta-8 may experience problems if they consume too much of it. The following are some of these effects:

  • Fear and anxiety
  • Thinking and physical coordination issues
  • Hallucination
  • Drowsiness
  • Rapid heart rate

How Long Must You Be Clean to Pass a Urine Drug Test?

As previously stated, delta-8 will appear in drug testing as delta-9. Currently, our drug testing processes are not sophisticated enough to distinguish between these two. The test detects all THCs as the same. THC variations such as delta-8 are likewise thought to leave the body in just a week or two. 

We strongly advise that you refrain from using delta-8 products for at least 30 days before taking a drug test. However, it is crucial to note that delta-8 can sometimes be found in the body for up to 90 days. This is determined by various criteria such as frequency, delta-8 amount used, distribution technique, etc. To prevent worrying about the test’s outcome, you should sustain from delta-8 for 90 days.

Just like any other medical office that you visit, like an orthodontist or a medical office, remember to always be transparent about possible recreational consumables so they can make sure to never give you medication or sedation tools that could interfere with your treatment.

Allow Time to Pass

For delta-8 users, the only method to pass a drug test is to abstain from the substance for 90 days. Again, this could be less in some cases, but it depends. If you need to pass a drug test that will include testing for THC, you should give your body time to process. This is the best way to know you will pass without any issues.  

Drug test results would also differ between first-time and chronic delta-8 uses. The body will most likely remove residues of delta-8 before it enters the system for first-time users. The drug, however, may be detected in your body for up to a week. On the other hand, chronic users may fail a drug test if they do it fewer than 90 days after quitting. 

This is a very common question due to delta-8 being readily available on the mark. In fact, without FDA regulation, people can pick up delta-8 just about anywhere. However, knowing that it will cause you to fail a drug test is important information to know. If you are expected to take a drug test for employment or other reasons, you must stay away from delta-8. This is especially true in urine testing, the most common type of testing. This is due to how the body metabolizes the delta-8 chemical.

Work With A Trusted Toxicology Expert

Keystone Laboratories, a CAP-accredited North Carolina licensed laboratory and CLIA-licensed lab, is committed to helping you make important decisions that impact the safety and health of your patients with greater confidence. Clients in 48 states can get prescription drug and substance abuse recovery monitoring, specialized testing, workplace drug testing, screening, and program management services from Keystone. Contact Keystone Laboratories today to receive the industry-leading laboratory testing services!

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