A recurring question we get from patients is if the CBD they are taking will show up on their drug test. The simple answer is maybe.
Let’s start by understanding what is the difference between CBD and marijuana. Marijuana is harvested from the cannabis plant which contains over 60 active cannabinoid compounds. Two of the most commonly known compounds found in marijuana are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
Many believe that both components can provide benefits for a variety of symptoms and illnesses ranging from pain relief to reduction of anxiety and depression, but there is one one stark difference between the two compounds, THC causes a euphoric high and CBD does not.
The explanation for this is that CBD and THC affect different cell membrane receptors in the brain. The specific receptors that THC binds on triggers a release of dopamine neurotransmitters that causes the “high,” while CBD binds to separate receptors that do not produce the euphoria sensation.
Another key distinction is that marijuana strictly comes from the cannabis plant, but CBD can be derived from cannabis or hemp. Hemp is a plant closely related to cannabis but does not contain THC. CBD is legalized on a wider scale than marijuana due to its lack of THC.
As we stated earlier, THC is the chemical compound that will flag a drug test. Although most CBD products do not contain more than 0.3% THC (the legal limit to ship across state lines; more than 0.3% will trigger a positive drug test in most cases), most CBD companies do not provide a certificate of analysis to make sure their products are below 0.3%. Additionally, CBD companies may be more relaxed in states where marijuana is legalized.
So, will CBD show on your drug test? If your CBD product is derived from the cannabis plant and contains more than 0.3% THC it will show on your drug test. If you see benefits from taking CBD we recommend that you research the company you are purchasing from. Also, look for companies that provide a certificate of analysis and derive their CBD from hemp plants. A certificate of analysis should show the level of THC found in an individual batch and show the quality of the product to ensure you know what you are putting into your body.
Aculas is an occupational health and chiropractic clinic providing services for Overland Park, KS and the surrounding Kansas City Metro area. If you have more questions about employer drug tests, we’re here to help! Shoot us an email at [email protected] or give us a call at (913) 340-9900.
This content does not provide medical, legal or political advice or recommendations, it is for information purposes only.