Does CBD show up on a drug test?
No. CBD will not show up on a drug test. Tests for cannabis (marijuana) look for THC, the active compound in pot. However, there are things that can cause a false (or not so false) positive test result. Let’s take a look at it can affect drug testing.
What is CBD? Why are people using CBD oil?
CBD, or Cannabidiol, is a cannabinoid found in cannabis plants, one of over a hundred cannabinoids found in marijuana plants, in fact. While it was first discovered in the ‘40s, the oil has become more popular lately due to possible benefits for many ailments such as epilepsy, arthritis, and insomnia, and anxiety, among others.
CBD is very similar to THC, the active compound in marijuana. However, even though the two chemicals share a common structure and makeup, it is non-psychoactive.
Legality of CBD Oil
With the legalization of both medical and recreational marijuana in many states (Chicago has legal medical marijuana and is working on a bill to legalize recreational pot), CBD has gained in popularity and access. With an Illinois medical marijuana card, consumers have access to the oil derived from cannabis plants. One thing to note is that while states like Illinois have passed laws legalizing forms of cannabis and cannabis derivatives, those substances still remain illegal under federal law.
Drug Testing and CBD Oil
The question then becomes, will use of CBD oil cause somebody to fail a drug test? Drug testing that tests for marijuana specifically test for THC, not CBD. Now, could a test be devised to detect it in the system? Sure. However, since it is non-psychoactive, there’s no reason to test for this chemical.
There can be a trace amount of THC in CBD oil, which is why CBD has had a hard time gaining legal status outside of otherwise legalized marijuana. However, these traces will not cause a positive result at normal use (less than 0.3 percent). One would have to really overdo it for the THC to ring a positive test result. Therefore, it is not likely to cause a false positive for marijuana.
That said, the most likely cause of failed drugs tests due to CBD include:
- Use of marijuana products while taking a CBD product
- Cross contamination during the manufacturing process. There is not a lot of regulation with regards to these processes.
- Mislabeling of the product.
Consumers must be acutely aware of the source of the CBD product they are purchasing and ask questions with regards to the manufacturing process. If the source is derived from cannabis, and not hemp, consumers need to determine if the product is a “Full Spectrum Oil” (meaning the product contains other active compounds along with the CBD), or if the product is an “Isolate” (a pure CBD product with no other active compounds).
Bottom Line
The bottom line is that CBD will not cause a false positive on a drug test. Other factors, like poor production of the products, actually cannabis use, and mislabeling of bottles, can lead to a failed drug test. With the rising popularity of its usage, it is important for employees to understand what they are buying and the risks associated with employer mandated drug tests.Still have questions? Give us a call at 847-258-3966 or visit our Elk Grove-Chicago drug testing lab location.