Delta 8 THC is one of today’s most popular cannabinoid products. It is closely related to delta 9 THC, the cannabinoid most people think of when they consider marijuana’s psychoactive compounds. However, because most states that do not have legal medical or recreational marijuana only apply the THC ban to delta 9 THC, delta 8 products remain legal in most states.
Despite the fact that delta 8 is not technically illegal in most places, people have reason to wonder about how long it takes the human body to clear it. Unfortunately, delta 8 does still show up on drug tests, and many employers or employment agencies refuse applicants that use it even in states where it’s legal. The fact that delta 8 THC use can impact employment opportunities brings up questions not just about how Delta 8 looks on a drug test but also about how to clear it more quickly from the body. This article will attempt to address those questions.
How Long Do the Effects of Delta 8 THC Last?
Before even thinking about how long delta 8 and its metabolites linger in the human body, it’s worth discussing how long the primary effects can be expected to last. Because no two delta 8 users are alike, there is no exact time frame for when the effects will kick in and how long they will continue, but most people report around four to five hours of effectiveness for vaped delta THC. When consumed orally in the form of edibles or gummies, it’s common for the cannabinoid to stay active for longer periods.
How Long Is Delta 8 Detectable?
The most important consideration is what type of drug testing method is being used. Some have much wider detection windows than others, so users need to find out how they will be tested to make accurate determinations about whether or not they will pass.
Saliva Tests
Saliva tests can only detect THC used within around 24 hours of the test. These tests are common, but obviously not very reliable.
Blood Tests
Blood tests are also common, and they’re actually even less reliable than saliva tests. They can detect delta 8 THC consumed in the three to four hours preceding the test, but that’s it.
Urine Tests
Urine tests are both accurate and reliable. They can detect any type of THC, including delta 8, for up to 48 days after the test taker’s last instance of consumption.
Hair Tests
Hair tests are the most advanced form of drug testing. Theoretically, they can detect THC consumption for up to three months after a person’s final use. However, they’re not as accurate as some people believe.
Factors That Influence Detection Windows
Two people who take the same type of drug test after spending the same amount of type abstinent from THC may still get different results. The reason for the discrepancy is that there are many factors that influence detection windows, most of which relate more to the person’s lifestyle and individual physiology than to the test itself. The most important factors to consider are:
- Frequency of use
Amount of delta 8 consumed
Method of consumption
Biological age
Genetics
Metabolism
Medication and supplement use
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In many states, delta 8 users can still pass drug tests because there are laws in place to protect them from discrimination. Anyone who plans on using delta 8 should pay attention to the relevant laws and the likelihood they will be subjected to drug testing.
