How Long Does Delta 8 Stay in Your System?

Marijuana is one of the most commonly used substances in the United States. Many states have decriminalized or legalized marijuana, allowing widespread access to more users as time has gone on. Marijuana’s intoxicating effects come from several primary active ingredients, including THC and CBD. Delta 9 THC is a chemical compound that produces a high feeling when people use marijuana.

Delta 8 THC is a compound that has similar properties to delta 9 THC and is legal in many places where marijuana is still illegal. Many users believe that because delta 8 is legal and available for sale in retail spaces, it is safe to use. However, users may develop a dependence on any mind-altering substance, including delta 8.

What is Delta-8?

Delta 8 THC is a compound that is similar to delta 9 THC, which is the primary chemical compound in marijuana that causes intoxication. Delta 8 is less potent than Delta 9 THC, but it is popular in populations where marijuana is still illegal. Marijuana users who want a less intense high may also use delta 8 in place of marijuana because of its weaker effects.

The Effects and Risks of Delta-8

In many ways, the effects produced by delta 8 are very similar to the effects of naturally occurring delta 9 THC. It’s important to understand the effects and risks of delta 8 so that you can make informed choices about your substance use and seek treatment when you need it.

Effects

Delta 8 users experience similar effects to people who use marijuana products, including:

• Red eyes
• Dry mouth
• Relaxation
• Drowsiness
• Happiness
• Calm

Risks

In high doses, delta 8 may cause people to experience colors more vividly or enhance the sound of music. But in even higher doses, delta 8 can lead to unwanted side effects, including:

• Paranoia
• Mood swings
• Anxiety
• Hallucinations

Is Delta-8 Addictive?

Any substance that alters the way people feel can be addictive, including delta 8. However, compared to other drugs like opioids and alcohol, the risk of addiction to delta 8 is relatively low.

People who use delta 8 for long periods may develop tolerance, meaning that they need to take more of it to get the same effects. Tolerance often leads to heavier or more frequent use, which increases the risk of dependence or addiction.

People may experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using delta 8 after prolonged or heavy use. Withdrawal symptoms may include:

• Irritability
• Insomnia
• Appetite changes
• Depression

If you believe that you are addicted to delta 8 or any other substance, it is crucial to seek professional help, beginning with a substance abuse evaluation. Recognizing a problem is the first step toward getting the help you need to overcome substance abuse and live a healthier, sober lifestyle.

How Long Does Delta-8 Stay in Your System?

Many factors can affect how long and intense the effects of Delta 8 are. Using large amounts of delta 8 THC can produce more potent and longer-lasting effects.

How you consume delta 8 may also impact the length and duration of your effects. Using high-dose Delta 8 tinctures and edibles is more likely to produce longer-lasting and intense effects.

Delta 8 may also show up on drug screenings. Urine tests are among the most commonly used types of drug screenings because they are convenient and affordable. After taking delta THC products, your body will metabolize them into several different compounds, including THC metabolites. These THC metabolites may be detectable in urine samples for several days after you use it.

What Factors Affect How Long Delta-8 Stays in Your System?

There is no reliable way to beat a drug screening test. However, several factors can affect how long delta 8 stays in your system.

Hydration

Staying hydrated can help you flush out toxins, including delta 8, from your system. When you drink enough fluids, you are likely to urinate frequently, which can help remove delta 8 from your body.

Body fat

Delta 8 is a fat-soluble compound that binds with fat cells in the body. Users with higher body fat percentages may retain more Delta 8 for longer than those with less body fat. Stored delta 8 is slowly released into the bloodstream over time, meaning that tests can detect it for longer periods.

Dose

The more delta 8 you consume, the more likely it will be detectable in your system. Taking large doses of delta 8 can lead to longer and more intense effects and might make it more likely for drug screenings to be detected.

Frequency

Using delta 8 frequently can mean that there is more of it in your system at any given time. The more delta 8 you use, and the more regularly you take it, the more likely it is to be detectable on a drug screening.

Will Delta 8 THC Show Up on a Drug Test?

Delta-8 THC, like its more well-known cousin, delta-9 THC (the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis), can indeed show up on a drug test. This is because standard drug tests typically screen for the presence of THC metabolites in the body, and they don’t distinguish between delta-8 THC and delta-9 THC. Both compounds share a similar chemical structure, and the tests may not differentiate between them.

The detection window for delta-8 THC in various drug tests can vary depending on factors like dosage, frequency of use, metabolism, and the type of test. Here’s a general guideline for the detection windows of delta-8 THC in different testing methods:

• Urine – Delta-8 THC and its metabolites are typically detectable in urine for about 1 to 3 days after use, although it can extend to up to a week for frequent or heavy users. It’s important to note that urine tests primarily detect THC-COOH, a metabolite of delta-8 THC, rather than delta-8 THC itself.
• Blood – Delta-8 THC is detectable in blood for a shorter period than in urine. It’s usually present for a few hours to a couple of days following use. Blood tests are typically used in cases of impairment or recent intoxication.
• Saliva – Delta-8 THC can be detected in saliva for a relatively short duration, generally up to 24 hours after use. Saliva tests are often used for roadside drug testing or in workplace settings.
• Hair – Hair follicle tests are capable of detecting delta-8 THC for an extended period, up to 90 days or more.

If you find yourself wondering how long delta 8 stays in your system because you are worried about having a drug screening, it may be a sign that you need help for substance abuse. Seek treatment and support that can help you regain control over your substance use and learn how to embrace a healthier, sober lifestyle.

Get Help For Substance Abuse Now

If you or someone you love struggles with delta 8 addiction or other forms of substance abuse, you are not alone. Reach out to the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists now to learn about our holistic substance abuse treatment programs or to be connected to support at any stage of your recovery journey.