Can CBD Affect Workplace Drug Tests?
CBD is one of the most popular supplements currently on the market, with tens of millions of Americans having tried the substance. The substance has become so popular because a variety of research and the anecdotal experience of millions of users has found that CBD may be able to help people deal with numerous physical and emotional challenges.
However, CBD is very, very new. As a result, there are many misconceptions about the product. People aren’t sure if CBD can get them high or if it contains THC. All of this has led to a very important question: Can CBD result in a positive drug test?
The answer depends on a variety of factors.
Two types of CBD
There are two types of CBD: Full Spectrum and Broad Spectrum. Full Spectrum CBD is minimally processed to contain all naturally occurring flavonoids, terpenes, and cannabinoids. Among the cannabinoids that Full Spectrum DBD contains is THC, which is short for tetrahydrocannabinol. THC is best known as the compound in marijuana which results in intoxication. However, legally produced CBD in the United States cannot contain more than .3% THC, a level far too low to result in any sort of intoxication. Full Spectrum users believe that THC is necessary to produce the Entourage Effect, which is the theory behind the idea that CBD must contain THC in order to be most effective.
Broad Spectrum DBD is identical to Full Spectrum except for one key respect: It contains no THC. As such, Broad Spectrum CBD cannot result in a positive drug test.
That’s not the case for Full Spectrum CBD.
Drug Tests & CBD
There are a variety of different drug tests available on the market. Most operate under the same basic principle: They test the amount of THC parts per 1000 in your blood, urine, or hair follicles. If you cross the threshold set by the test, you have a positive drug test result.
As such, can CBD result in a positive drug test? Most likely no, but it is possible.
Generally speaking, CBD contains too little THC to result in a positive drug test. However, this can change, depending on a variety of factors, including:
- Your experience with cannabis, with more cannabis use making you more likely to test positive
- Your height and weight
- Your metabolism
- How recently you used the CBD
- How much CBD you consuming
- The sensitivity of the drug test in question
Indeed, there are stories about police officers losing their jobs as a result of CBD use.
It is important to fully understand the potential challenges of CBD use before you use it. While doubtful, it is possible for CBD to result in a positive drug test.