A standard 10-panel drug test detects and measures 10 of the most widely abused substances or their metabolites found in urine samples. If any are discovered, further tests will be run to confirm positive results, with their results sent off to a medical review officer for discussion with you and possible sharing with your employer.
Does CBD show up on a 10 panel drug screen depends on the type, frequency and duration of its use. Full spectrum CBD will have a greater likelihood of showing up due to THC binding more readily to our endocannabinoid system than isolates or products without THC present – therefore it is crucial that when purchasing CBD products you read labels thoroughly to make sure it contains only THC-free extracts or isolates.
Most individuals using CBD for several weeks should not show up on a drug test for marijuana if they do not smoke recreational marijuana or use other THC-containing products, with each lab having different cutoff levels of acceptable THC levels in the workplace. It’s wise to discuss any concerns with your employer in advance as regards to acceptable levels of THC in your workplace environment.
If you test positive for THC, requesting a retest may be possible. This process should be overseen by a medical review officer to make sure there is an acceptable medical explanation for your positive result. A gas chromatography/mass spectrometry test would likely be used during this retest – much more accurate than initial screening tests; and should the result of this second screening be negative, your employer won’t be informed.
Before taking CBD, consult with a healthcare provider, as it could interact with certain over-the-counter and prescription medicines, including acetaminophen (Tylenol). CBD could cause these medications to leave your system more rapidly by competing with liver enzymes responsible for breaking them down more quickly.
CBD may interact with some medications and be harmful for adults to consume; however, its long-term effects are unknown; therefore it should only be consumed under medical advice.
If you are concerned that taking CBD could result in failing a drug test, speak with your HR representative immediately about getting a waiver or alternative form of treatment. Some states have laws which protect employees who require cannabis as medicine from discrimination by companies located there; however, most employers won’t consider this an acceptable accommodation; so speak to HR first before trying this approach to pass an exam. If that fails, consider asking for a retest instead as this may give more accurate results for more frequent users of the substance.