Introduction
If you’re familiar with CBD and drug tests, you likely already know that taking CBD oil or other CBD products can sometimes result in a failed drug test. But what about using CBD topicals? Can they also result in a failed drug test? In this article, we’ll explore this question in-depth to help you make informed decisions about using CBD topicals.
CBD Topicals and Drug Tests: What You Need to Know
First, let’s define what we mean by CBD topicals. These are products such as creams, lotions, salves, and balms that are applied to the skin for localized relief. Unlike CBD oils or edibles taken orally, CBD topicals are not metabolized by the body’s digestive system and do not enter the bloodstream.
Drug tests typically look for the presence of THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis that can produce a “high.” While CBD is also a compound found in cannabis, it does not produce the same effects as THC and is not typically included in drug tests.
Can Using CBD Cream Cause You to Fail a Drug Test?
One of the most common questions consumers have about CBD topicals is whether they can cause a failed drug test. The short answer, unfortunately, is yes – there is a possibility that using CBD topicals could lead to a failed drug test.
Exploring the Possibility of Topical CBD Causing a Failed Drug Test
So why is there a risk of a failed drug test when using CBD topicals? There are two main reasons:
- THC contamination: While CBD topicals do not contain THC, there is a possibility that they could become contaminated with THC during the manufacturing process. This is especially true if the CBD comes from a cannabis strain that also contains THC. This means that even if a product is labeled as “THC-free,” it could still contain trace amounts of THC that could show up on a drug test.
- False positives: Drug tests are not always foolproof, and sometimes they can produce false positives. This means that a drug test could indicate the presence of THC when there is actually none present. While this is relatively rare, it is still a possibility that should be considered.
To illustrate this point further, there have been several real-life cases of people failing drug tests after using CBD topicals. For example, in 2019, a woman in California lost her job after testing positive for THC when she had only been using a CBD topical product. This highlights the importance of being cautious when using any CBD products and doing your research beforehand to make sure you’re getting a high-quality, reliable product.
It’s also worth noting that regulations around CBD production and testing are still evolving, and there is not yet a consistent standard for how CBD products should be produced and labeled. This makes it challenging for consumers to know with certainty what’s in the products they’re purchasing, and it adds an additional layer of complexity to the issue of CBD and drug testing.
The Truth About Topical CBD and Drug Testing: Separating Fact from Fiction
Now that we’ve explored the potential risks associated with using CBD topicals, let’s summarize our findings and separate fact from fiction.
First, it’s important to reiterate that using CBD topicals does carry some risk of a failed drug test, but the risk is relatively low. The majority of CBD topicals on the market do not contain THC, and the likelihood of THC contamination or a false positive is relatively rare.
However, it’s still important to be an informed consumer and to do your research before purchasing any CBD products. Look for products that have been third-party lab tested and that have a clear labeling of their ingredients. If you’re concerned about potential drug tests, consult with your employer or HR representative to understand your company’s policies.
Navigating the Intersection of Topical CBD and Drug Testing
If you do use CBD topicals but are concerned about drug tests, there are a few additional strategies you can use to mitigate your risk. These include:
- Looking for products with third-party lab testing to verify their contents
- Checking with your employer or HR representative to understand your company’s drug testing policies
- Maintaining open communication with your medical provider or healthcare team
It’s also worth noting that the type of drug test you take can impact your likelihood of a failed test. For example, a saliva or blood test is less likely to pick up on THC than a urine test. Understanding the nuances of drug testing can help you better assess your own personal risk.
Are You at Risk for a Failed Drug Test if You Use CBD Topicals?
To recap, using CBD topicals does carry some level of risk for a failed drug test, but the risk is relatively low. By being an informed consumer, carefully researching the products you use, and using common sense strategies to mitigate your risk, you can still enjoy the potential benefits that CBD topicals offer with minimal risk.
Ultimately, the decision about whether to use CBD topicals and other CBD products is a personal one, and it’s up to each individual to weigh the risks and benefits and make their own informed decision.
For more information on CBD and drug testing, we recommend consulting with your medical provider, doing your own research, and checking out reputable online resources such as the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) or Project CBD.