How Long Does Delta-8 THC Stay in Your System?

How Delta-8 THC is Metabolized

Delta-8 THC is processed primarily in the liver, where enzymes convert it into metabolites, including 11-hydroxy-Δ⁸-THC and 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC. These compounds are stored in fat tissues before being gradually excreted through urine and feces.¹ The length of time Delta-8 THC remains in the system depends on metabolism, frequency of use, and body composition.

Does Delta-8 THC Show Up on Drug Tests?

Standard drug tests screen for THC metabolites rather than differentiating between Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC. Since both compounds share similar metabolic pathways, Delta-8 use can trigger a positive test result.² Most workplace and probation drug screenings use urine-based immunoassays, which detect the primary THC metabolite 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC. Advanced tests, such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), can confirm Delta-8 presence but are not commonly used in routine drug screenings.

How Long Does Delta-8 THC Stay in Urine?

Urine testing is the most common method used to detect THC metabolites. The detection window varies depending on frequency of use:

• Single Use: Detectable for up to 3 days.
• Moderate Use (weekly): Detectable for 7–10 days.
• Frequent Use (multiple times per week): Detectable for 10–21 days.
• Chronic Use (daily): Detectable for 30 days or longer.

Research suggests that higher doses and chronic use extend the time Delta-8 metabolites remain in the system.³

How Long Does Delta-8 Stay in Blood?

Blood tests detect active THC rather than its metabolites, making them useful for assessing recent use. Delta-8 THC is typically present in the blood for:

• Occasional Users: Up to 24 hours.
• Frequent Users: 24–48 hours.

In cases of chronic use, some studies indicate that Delta-8 THC may persist in the bloodstream for up to 72 hours.⁴

How Long Does Delta-8 Stay in Saliva?

Saliva drug tests detect THC for a shorter duration compared to urine or hair. Delta-8 THC is typically detectable for:

• Occasional Use: 6–12 hours.
• Frequent Use: Up to 24 hours.

Because Delta-8 THC is absorbed through oral tissues, saliva testing is sometimes used in roadside drug screenings.⁵

How Long Does Delta-8 Stay in Hair?

Hair follicle testing is designed to detect long-term cannabis use. Delta-8 THC metabolites can remain in hair follicles for up to 90 days.⁶ However, hair tests are less commonly used in routine drug screenings.

How Long Do the Effects of Delta-8 Last?

The duration of Delta‑8’s psychoactive effects varies by consumption method, with vaping or smoking typically producing effects within 5–10 minutes that last 2–4 hours, tinctures taking effect in about 15–30 minutes with a 4–6 hour duration, while edibles generally have a slower onset of 30–90 minutes but yield longer-lasting effects, often extending between 4–8 hours due to first-pass metabolism in the liver.

How Long Do Delta-8 Edibles Stay in Your System?

Delta-8 edibles can stay in your system for 7 to 30 days, depending on frequency of use, metabolism, and dosage. In occasional users, metabolites may be detectable for up to a week, while chronic users may test positive for up to a month. Due to first-pass metabolism, where Delta-8 is processed by the liver before entering the bloodstream, edibles take longer to break down.

Does the Type of Delta-8 Product Affect Detection Times?

Various Delta-8 THC products can influence how long the compound stays in your system:
Delta-8 Edibles: Due to first-pass metabolism, edibles may result in prolonged detection times compared to inhalation methods.
Delta-8 Vape Pens and Cartridges: Inhalation leads to quicker absorption and elimination, potentially resulting in shorter detection windows.
Delta-8 Tinctures: Sublingual administration allows for rapid absorption, with detection times potentially similar to inhalation.
Delta-8 Pre-Rolls: Smoking pre-rolls provides rapid onset of effects, with detection times comparable to vaping.
Delta-8 Diamonds: These are highly concentrated forms of Delta-8 THC and may result in longer detection times due to higher potency.
Delta-8 Drinks and Seltzers: These beverages undergo gastrointestinal absorption, leading to onset times and detection windows similar to edibles.

How to Eliminate Delta-8 THC from Your System Faster

While there is no guaranteed way to remove Delta-8 THC immediately, some strategies may help accelerate its elimination:

• Hydration: Drinking plenty of water may help flush THC metabolites from the body.
• Exercise: Engaging in cardio and strength training may aid in breaking down stored THC in fat cells.
• Diet: Consuming fiber-rich foods may support the body’s natural detoxification processes.
• Time: The most effective way to clear Delta-8 from the body is abstinence and allowing the body to metabolize it naturally.