Does Delta-8 THC Show Up on Drug Test?

Delta-8 THC is a cannabinoid that is found in cannabis plants. Like delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive component in marijuana, Delta-8 THC is psychoactive and gives a “high.” However, Delta-8 THC is about two-thirds as psychoactive, lending to a more clear headed high and less paranoia and anxiety in most users. A common question we get is if delta 8 THC will show up on a drug test. 

Does Delta-8 THC Show Up on Drug Tests?

The answer is yes. Delta 8 THC will show up on a drug test. 

Drug tests can easily detect delta 9 THC. Because these compounds are so similar, we don’t recommend using either Delta 8, Delta 9, or any other THC products if you need to pass a drug test. 

Oddly, they don’t actually check for your THC levels. Instead, they look for the metabolites produced by your body when the liver is done processing THC. 

Delta 8 THC produces some of the same metabolites as Delta 9 THC, THC-COOH. This is what most drug tests are looking for as marijuana or cannabis.  

The top limit for the amount of THC-COOH in your blood is 50 ng/ml. However, delta 8 THC and its metabolites have a lower cut-off mark (30 ng/ml).

Potential benefits of Delta 8 THC

Delta-8 THC is not as well-known as Delta-9 THC, but it is becoming more popular as a way to experience the benefits of cannabis with a more functional high. Larger doses however, can still lead to the same impairment and potential paranoia and anxiety as marijuana can. Delta-8 THC is available in tinctures, oils, and edibles and can also be smoked or vaporized.

Like Delta 9 THC, people use Delta 8 for pain, anxiety, insomnia, nausea and more. Delta 8 interacts with more receptors throughout the body compared to Delta 9 THC, and some of our customers have found that this helps them more with their pain. Read more about the effects of Delta 8 THC.