Despite the federal legalization of hemp and the rising popularity of hemp-based products, many individuals still encounter regulatory challenges in their daily lives. One of the most common concerns is whether using a hemp product will affect the results 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?
It’s widely known that both hemp and its THC-rich relative, marijuana, contain THC cannabinoids, which are responsible for marijuana’s psychoactive effects. While hemp does contain THC, it’s present in much smaller amounts due to selective breeding over centuries.
Urine tests specifically look for THC to determine if someone has used certain substances. However, since THC is found in both hemp and marijuana, these tests cannot differentiate between the two sources. This means a urine test will show a positive result for THC, regardless of whether it came from hemp or marijuana.
This issue has led many brands to develop THC-free and cannabinoid isolate products. By extracting specific cannabinoids, these products are designed to reduce the risk of triggering a positive result, or “hot,” on a urine test.
Factors That Can Affect a Urine Test
Several factors can influence the results of a urine test, starting with what you’ve consumed. This includes hemp-derived products, certain foods or drinks, and prescription medications. For instance, Banner Health points out that everyday items like Benadryl, Ibuprofen, poppy seeds, and some over-the-counter cold medications can lead to false positives on a urine test.
Another factor that can affect your urine test is the policies of the organization requiring the test. For example, some employers may flag any THC found in a urine sample, even if it comes from a hemp-based product. This may be due to the nature of the job or liability concerns. Since current testing methods can’t distinguish whether you consumed hemp-derived THC 30 minutes or 8 hours ago, even off-the-clock use could impact your results.
While hemp is federally legal across all 50 states, each state has its own unique rules and regulations regarding its use. What may be legal in one state might be restricted or even prohibited in another. To get specific information about hemp laws and regulations, it’s best to contact the regulatory authority that oversees the legal hemp industry in your state.
The Bottom Line
There are several factors to consider when preparing for a urine test. If you consume a hemp-derived Delta 9 product before the test, it will result in a positive reading. However, how that result is interpreted can depend on various factors such as job type, company policies, and state laws, all of which can influence the outcome of the test.
If you plan to consume hemp-derived Delta 9 and expect to take a urine test, it’s important to gather information beforehand. Each situation is unique, and understanding the specific factors in your case can help you avoid any unwanted surprises or complications.
This article is not intended to provide legal or medical advice. Please consult the appropriate professionals for any legal or medical questions related to this topic.