Will Hemp-Derived Delta 9 THC Show Up on a Urine Test?
Despite the federal legalization of hemp and the growing popularity of hemp-based products, many people still face challenges when navigating regulations. A common concern is whether using a hemp product will affect the outcome of a urine test. The answer to this question is more complex than a simple yes or no.
Do Urine Tests Detect Hemp-Based Cannabinoids?
By now, it’s widely understood that both hemp and its THC-rich cousin, marijuana, contain THC cannabinoids. THC is the compound responsible for marijuana’s psychoactive effects. While hemp contains THC, it’s present in much smaller amounts due to centuries of selective breeding for specific traits.
Urine tests specifically screen for THC to detect certain substance use. However, since THC is found in both hemp and marijuana, the test cannot differentiate between the two sources. This means that a urine test will register positive for THC without indicating whether it came from hemp or marijuana.
This concern has led many brands to develop THC-free and cannabinoid isolate products. By removing specific cannabinoids, these products aim to reduce the risk of testing “hot” on a urine test, providing a safer option for consumers concerned about drug screenings.
Factors That Can Affect a Urine Test
Several factors can influence the results of a urine test, starting with anything you’ve consumed. This includes hemp-derived products, certain foods or drinks, and prescription medications. For instance, Banner Health highlights that common items like Benadryl, Ibuprofen, poppy seeds, and some over-the-counter cold medications can cause a false positive on a urine test.
Another factor that may affect your urine test is the policies of the organization requesting it. For example, a company may flag any THC detected, even if it’s from a hemp-derived product. This could be due to the nature of the job or liability concerns. Since current testing methods cannot distinguish between when hemp-based THC was consumed—whether it was 30 minutes or 8 hours ago—consumption off the clock may still impact your results.
Finally, although hemp is federally legal across all 50 states, each state has its own set of rules and regulations governing hemp. What may be legal in one state could be heavily restricted or even illegal in another. For precise information about the hemp laws in your state, it’s best to contact the regulatory program overseeing the legal hemp industry where you live.
The Bottom Line
There are several factors to consider when it comes to urine tests. If you consume a hemp-derived Delta 9 product before taking one, it will trigger a positive result. However, how that result is handled can depend on various factors, such as your job type, employer policies, and state laws, all of which can influence the outcome of the test.
If you use hemp-derived Delta 9 and are required to take a urine test, it’s wise to gather relevant information ahead of time. Every situation can vary based on the factors mentioned above, so doing your homework can help you avoid any unexpected surprises or negative consequences.
This article is not meant to serve as legal or medical advice. For any legal or medical concerns related to this topic, please consult the appropriate professional resources.
