Will Hemp Products Show Up on a Drug Test?

Hemp products, including those made from hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD), may contain trace amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound found in marijuana that is responsible for its intoxicating effects. 

While the amount of THC in hemp products is typically very low and not enough to cause intoxication, it is possible that the use of hemp products could result in a positive drug test for THC.[1]

If you are concerned about the potential impact of hemp products on a drug test, it is a good idea to discuss this with your health care provider or the provider conducting the drug test. They may be able to provide more information about the specific product you are using and the likelihood of a positive drug test. 

It can also be helpful to review the product label or contact the manufacturer to get more information about the THC content of the product.

What Are the Most Common Types of Hemp Products? 

There are many different types of hemp products available on the market. These are some of the most common types:

• Hemp oil: Hemp oil is made from the seeds of the hemp plant and is rich in nutrients, including essential fatty acids and protein.[2] It can be used as a dietary supplement or as a cooking oil.
• Hemp protein powder: Hemp protein powder is made from ground hemp seeds and a good source of protein, fiber, and other nutrients. It can be added to smoothies, baked goods, and other foods as a protein supplement.
• Hemp seeds: Hemp seeds are small, nutty-tasting seeds that are high in nutrients. They can be added to a variety of foods, such as oatmeal, smoothies, and salads.
• Hemp milk: This is a plant-based milk alternative made from ground hemp seeds. It is a good source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients.
• Hemp-derived CBD oil: CBD oil is made from the flowers and leaves of the hemp plant. It contains high levels of CBD, a non-intoxicating compound with potential health benefits. It can be taken orally, applied topically, or vaporized.
• Hemp-derived CBD edibles: CBD edibles are food products that contain hemp-derived CBD. This can include gummies, chocolate, cookies, and other products.
• Hemp-derived CBD topicals: CBD topicals are products that are applied directly to the skin and contain hemp-derived CBD. This can include creams, lotions, and salves.
• Hemp clothing and textiles: Hemp can be used to make a variety of clothing and textiles, including shirts, pants, socks, and bedding. Hemp is known for its durability and sustainability.
• Hemp paper: This paper is made from the fibers of the hemp plant and can be used in a variety of applications, including printing, packaging, and stationery. Hemp paper is known for its strength, durability, and sustainability.
• Hemp plastic: Hemp plastic is made from the fibers of the hemp plant. It can be used to make a variety of products, including bottles, containers, and automotive parts. Hemp plastic is more sustainable and biodegradable than traditional plastic made from fossil fuels.
• Hemp cosmetics: These cosmetics are made from hemp oil or hemp-derived CBD and can include products such as lotions, creams, and makeup. Hemp-based cosmetics are often marketed as natural and nourishing for the skin.
• Hemp building materials: Hemp can be used to make a variety of building materials, including insulation, plaster, and concrete. Hemp building materials are known for their strength, durability, and sustainability.
• Hemp pet products: Hemp can be used to make a variety of pet products, including toys, bedding, and food. Hemp pet products are often marketed as natural and nourishing for pets.
• Hemp biofuel: Hemp can be processed to produce biofuels, including ethanol and biodiesel. Hemp biofuels are renewable and have a lower carbon footprint than traditional fossil fuels.
• Hemp food: Hemp seeds and hemp oil can be used in a variety of food products, including granola, energy bars, and protein powders. Hemp food products are often marketed as being high in nutrients and protein.

Do Hemp Products Show Up on a Drug Test?

There are several factors that can affect the likelihood of a positive drug test following the use of hemp products, including the specific product used, the amount and frequency of use, and the sensitivity of the drug test.

Some hemp products may contain higher amounts of THC than others, and some drug tests may be more sensitive to THC than others.[3]

Tips to Ensure You Won’t Fail a Drug Test 

Here are some tips to help ensure you won’t fail a drug test due to hemp product use:

• Know the THC content of the hemp products you are using. Hemp products may contain trace amounts of THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana. It is important to know the THC content of the products you are using and to choose products with very low levels of THC if you are concerned about drug testing.
• Use hemp products with caution. If you are concerned about drug testing, it may be best to avoid using hemp products or to only use them with caution. This is especially important if you are using hemp products that contain higher levels of THC or if you are using them frequently.
• Choose products from reputable sources. It is important to choose hemp products from reputable sources to ensure that they are accurately labeled and contain the amount of THC stated on the label.
• Consider the type of drug test you will be taking. Different drug tests have different sensitivity levels and may detect different levels of THC. It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the type of drug test you will be taking and to take this into account when using hemp products.
• Consider the timing of your drug test. THC can be detected in the body for a period of time after it is consumed. If you are concerned about drug testing, it may be best to avoid using hemp products for a couple weeks or more before the test.[4]
• Discuss your hemp product use with the provider conducting the drug test. If you are concerned about the potential impact of hemp products on a drug test, it may be helpful to discuss your use of these products with the provider conducting the test. They may be able to provide more information about the specific product you are using and the likelihood of a positive drug test.

How to Read a Hemp Product Label to Avoid Failing a Drug Test 

If you are concerned about failing a drug test due to hemp product use, it is important to pay attention to the label on hemp products to ensure you are choosing products with very low levels of THC or completely THC free if possible. 

Here are some tips for understanding the label on hemp products to avoid failing a drug test:

• Look for products that are labeled as “THC-free” or “non-psychoactive.” These products should contain very low levels of THC and are less likely to cause a positive drug test.
• Check the THC content of the product. The label should indicate the amount of THC in the product. Choose products with very low levels of THC, such as those that contain less than 0.3% THC.
• Look for information about the extraction method. The label should indicate the method used to extract the hemp oil or other active ingredients from the plant. Some extraction methods may result in higher levels of THC in the final product.[5]

What to Do if You Have Failed a Drug Test From Using Hemp Products

If you have failed a drug test due to the use of hemp products, there are a few options you can consider:

• Take a second test. Some drug tests may have a high false-positive rate for THC. If you have concerns about the accuracy of the test, you may want to consider taking a second test from a different brand to confirm the results.
• Talk to a healthcare provider. If you are concerned about your hemp product use and its potential impact on drug testing, it may be helpful to talk to a healthcare provider. They can provide more information about the potential risks and benefits of hemp products and help you develop a plan to manage your use of these products, especially if you feel that you are unable to stop such use.

Though CBD is a non-addictive, non-psychoactive substance, if you are using it in such large amounts that it is consistently giving you positive drug test results or if you are using it as an excuse to cover the use of other drugs, including marijuana, it may be time to consider some of the support and treatment services available that will help you to stop taking all substances.