Does CBD Show Up on Drug Tests?
CBD supplements have become mainstream in recent years and can be found in a countless array of products. However, the regulation of CBD is yet to catch up with our changing times.
This is due to the fact that even though CBD oil is produced from hemp or cannabis plant, it’s not actually a drug. Still, that leaves many CBD oil users wondering does CBD oil show up in a drug test?
Some manufacturers would say no, it doesn’t. However, things are a little more complicated than that, so let’s discuss the will CBD fail a drug test question in more detail.
Understanding the Difference Between CBD and THC
Even though CBD and THC have exactly the same chemical structure, they don’t have the same effect on your body. That has to do with the smallest difference in how their atoms are arranged.
Both CBD and THC are extracted from the Cannabis sativa plant. They each have their benefits and some side effects too. However, it’s the THC that provides the characteristic psychoactive effects and causes a well-known high.
Even though CBD oil and THC are two different products, why is there fear of testing positive using CBD? This is because CBD oil may or may not contain very low levels of THC, usually no more than 0.3%.
Does CBD Oil Show Up in a Drug Test?
The main concern regarding testing positive using CBD oil tincture or capsules is whether the amount of THC you consume in the process will be registered. If the CBD doesn’t have any traces of THC, then there’s nothing to worry about.
There are CBD-sensitive tests out there, but they are not commonly used, as most of them only look for THC.
A CBD hemp oil drug test, just like any other drug test, is usually conducted via a urine sample. This type of drug testing can also detect the presence of cocaine, amphetamines, benzodiazepines, opiates, and even alcohol.
What If You Took a Lot of CBD?
You might wonder if a CBD drug test will come back positive if you consume enough CBD. Since CBD oil has very few side effects, it’s not uncommon for people to take a few extra drops of oil from time to time.
If that’s something you do occasionally, it’s reasonable to be concerned about the CBD drug test coming back positive. While there is a possibility that this might happen, it’s still not likely.
There are CBD products that contain more than the permitted levels of THC and other compounds. Your drug test would also have to be taken shortly after consumption to test positive.
Is False Positive an Option?
Another real concern that many people who would like to try CBD are hesitant about is a potential false positive drug test. A false positive can only happen in specific circumstances, and even then, it’s not a false positive, but a very low-level detection.
This all depends on the drug test analysis and whether or not the lab is applying a process called derivatization. This process could potentially make it seem that someone who is only taking CBD is consuming cannabis instead.
That’s why it’s recommended for the labs to use more advanced testing methods that provide more details. Also, if the person in question claims they’ve only used a THC-free CBD product, they can request hair testing, which is more accurate when confirming which drug has been ingested.
Common Reasons CBD Might Fail a Drug Test
One of the common causes for failing a drug test while only using CBD is a mislabelled product. These things might happen rarely, but they are not out of the realm of possibilities.
If the same manufacturer makes THC-free CBD and THC-rich products, it’s possible that there can be a mix-up. In addition to a case of mislabelling, there’s room for a potential THC contamination. Furthermore, smaller brands might not be able to fund third-party testing to ensure the accuracy of their labels, which can lead to a poorly labelled product.
What Drugs Should Not Be Taken with CBD?
The effect of CBD taken along with other over-the-counter and prescription drugs is still a matter of research. That’s why it’s imperative to talk to your doctor before taking CBD supplements. That is if you’re already using any medications.
Will CBD fail a drug test might be the first question on your mind. But, in general, you should always know all the implications of taking CBD before taking it. Some research has found that CBD can cause unwanted contraindications. So, what drugs should not be taken with CBD?
The list is extensive and continuously expanding, but CBD should be avoided when taking steroids, antihistamines, antibiotics, antidepressants, beta-blockers, and anti-inflammatory medication.
What If You Fail a Drug Test Due to CBD Supplements?
Drug testing at a workplace, in particular, is still a somewhat controversial subject. However, at the same time, the application of CBD supplements is ever-growing.
Even if you have taken lots of time to conduct research and find a THC-free CBD supplement from a trusted manufacturer, there are still no guarantees that your drug test won’t come back positive. Keep in mind that in the UK, cannabis is a class B drug, and having THC in your system could lead to legal consequences.
But at the end of the day, it will all come down to your employer and company policy regarding drug use. Still, to be on the safe side, make sure to only buy third-party tested CBD supplements.
Reaping the Benefits of CBD and Passing the Drug Test
No one can guarantee a negative drug test unless you’re absolutely certain where your CBD supplement came from. The manufacturer’s practices make every bit of difference since common mishaps revolve around wrong labelling and cross-contamination.
Another key point to keep in mind is that you shouldn’t buy CBD oil in one country and use it in another if there’s a chance you might be tested there. Different jurisdictions have different regulations regarding permissible levels of THC and general drug policies. Also, always remember to consult your doctor if you’re taking any other medication before you take CBD supplements.