Full Spectrum CBD: Will It Cause You to Fail Your Next Drug Test?
Cannabidiol, or CBD, has become increasingly popular for its perceived therapeutic effects, but the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in full-spectrum CBD products has raised concerns over whether its use can result in a positive drug test. With drug testing becoming more common in workplaces and other settings, addressing this issue is crucial for those who use CBD products.
In this article, we will explore the potential of full-spectrum CBD causing a positive drug test, why this happens, and what can be done to reduce the risk of a positive test result. We will also examine the differences between full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate CBD and their impact on drug tests.
Why Full Spectrum CBD Can Show Up on Drug Tests and What You Can Do About It
Drug tests are designed to detect the presence of specific compounds in a person’s system. These tests typically look for the presence of THC in a person’s system, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana. Full-spectrum CBD products contain THC, albeit at levels less than 0.3%, but this is enough to trigger a positive drug test.
While THC is the main culprit for a positive drug test, other compounds found in full-spectrum CBD products can also contribute. Cannabigerol (CBG), cannabinol (CBN), and cannabichromene (CBC) are common compounds found in full-spectrum CBD products, and they may also trigger a positive drug test depending on the sensitivity of the test and the amount of the compound in the product.
Reducing the risk of a positive drug test can be achieved through careful product selection, and using products that have been vigorously tested and verified to not contain THC. Broad-spectrum CBD products, for example, contain all the compounds found in full-spectrum products except THC, offering similar benefits without the same risk of testing positive for THC.
Navigating Drug Tests with Full Spectrum CBD Use
Drug testing regulations and guidelines vary by state and employer, and it’s crucial to be familiar with these regulations if you’re using CBD products. Some employers may have a zero-tolerance policy for THC, while others allow for a certain level of THC in a person’s system before being considered a positive drug test.
THC remains detectable in the system for a different amount of time depending on a variety of factors. For example, if you ingest a full-spectrum CBD product that contains THC, it may stay in your system for up to 30 days, depending on various factors such as your metabolism, frequency of use, and quantity ingested.
If you’re using CBD products and are uncertain of your employer’s drug-testing policies, it’s important to discuss usage with your employer before submitting to a drug test. It’s also recommended to consult with your doctor or a CBD expert before considering CBD use if you’re subject to drug tests or are concerned about the possibility of testing positive.
The Truth About Full Spectrum CBD and Drug Testing
While the potential for a positive drug test with full-spectrum CBD does exist, it’s vital to understand that it’s much less likely than many people believe.
A study conducted by Johns Hopkins University investigated the potential of ingesting 0.3% THC every day for six days and the subsequent drug test results. The study concluded that if an individual consumed a full-spectrum CBD product containing 0.3% THC every day, they would still not test positive for THC.
However, the study did find that with higher doses of THC, individuals were more likely to receive a positive drug test result. It’s essential to understand the concentration of THC and CBD in any product, and if there is a high CBD concentration, THC at levels of 0.3% or lower is unlikely to trigger a positive result.
Understanding the Differences between Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, and Isolate CBD in Drug Testing
Full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate CBD products are distinct and have different formulations. Understanding their differences can impact your CBD use and drug testing results.
Full-spectrum CBD products contain all the compounds found in the hemp plant, including THC, usually at levels less than 0.3%. Broad-spectrum CBD products contain all the compounds of full-spectrum CBD products, but without THC.
Isolate CBD products contain only the pure CBD compound, with all other compounds removed. Using isolate CBD products eliminates the possibility of testing positive for THC because the product doesn’t have any THC.
Full Spectrum CBD and Drug Testing: What the Experts Say
Doctors and CBD experts have generally advised that people using full-spectrum CBD products avoid undergoing drug testing, as there is always a risk of returning a positive test result.
Experts recommend that individuals using full-spectrum CBD products ensure that the company offering the product verifies the absence of THC and provides regular product testing reports. It’s also wise to limit the use of full-spectrum CBD products days leading up to drug testing to minimize any potential for returning a positive result.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the impact of full-spectrum CBD products on drug testing is a legitimate concern for some users. However, there are ways to reduce the risks of testing positive, such as using broad-spectrum products or isolates and carefully selecting products that are verified to contain no THC.
Consulting with your employer and a CBD expert is also recommended to see if the company’s drug testing policy prohibits THC entirely or allows for a minimal amount of THC. It’s essential to be vigilant in avoiding products with unnecessarily high THC levels, and to take a calculated approach to their usage before drug testing.