Despite the federal legalization of hemp and the growing popularity of hemp-based products, there is still a lot of regulatory uncertainty that many people face daily. One of the most common concerns is whether using a hemp product will affect the results of a urine test. The answer to that 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 more potent relative, marijuana, contain THC cannabinoids. These cannabinoids are responsible for the psychoactive effects marijuana is famous for. While hemp does contain THC, it’s in much smaller amounts due to centuries of selective breeding for different traits.
Urine tests screen for THC to determine if an individual has consumed substances containing it. However, because THC is present in both hemp and marijuana, these tests cannot differentiate between the two. As a result, a urine test will show positive for THC without specifying 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 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, with the most common being what you’ve consumed. This includes hemp-derived products, certain foods or drinks, and prescription medications. For instance, Banner Health highlights that everyday items like Benadryl, Ibuprofen, poppy seeds, and some over-the-counter cold medicines can trigger a false positive on a urine test.
Another factor that could affect your urine test results is the specific policies of the organization requesting the test. For example, a company might consider any THC detected in your urine, even if it’s from a hemp-derived product. This could be due to the nature of the job or for liability reasons. Unfortunately, current testing methods cannot distinguish whether you consumed hemp-based THC 30 minutes ago or eight hours ago, which can complicate matters even if you only use these products off the clock.
Even though hemp is federally legal in all 50 states, each state has its own rules and regulations. What may be permissible in one state could be heavily restricted or even prohibited in another. For more specific information about hemp laws and regulations in your area, it’s best to contact the regulatory agency responsible for overseeing the hemp industry in your state.
The Bottom Line
When preparing for a urine test, several factors must be considered. If you consume a hemp-derived Delta 9 product, it can trigger a positive result on a urine test. However, whether or not this result will impact you depends on various factors, including job requirements, employer policies, and state laws.
If you’re consuming hemp-derived Delta 9 and facing a urine test, it’s wise to gather all relevant information ahead of time. Each situation can vary depending on the factors mentioned. Doing your research in advance can help you avoid unexpected issues or negative consequences.
This article is not meant to serve as legal or medical advice. Please consult the appropriate professionals for any questions regarding legal or medical concerns related to this topic.