One of the most common misconceptions about HHC is that it won’t appear on a drug test. While some users who claim to have passed drug tests after taking HHC just once or twice contend that it won’t show up, others who have failed drug tests after using HHC just once or twice disagree.
If you have an upcoming drug test and want to learn what is accurate, you are at the right place. We will answer your questions in this post with a thorough explanation of HHC and drug testing. Let’s start with the basics.
What is HHC?
Although we often refer to HHC as a more recent cannabinoid, Roger Adams created it first in 1947. The discovery never had an impact until recently, when the demand for goods made from hemp increased. HHC is one of the more than 100 minor cannabinoids contained in the hemp plant. HHC is a THC relative that has long been understood by research, but cannabis users have rarely discussed it, and it is still not widely known.
Hexahydrocannabionol (HHC) is a hydrogenated version of THC obtained by hydrogenation. It is a shelf-stable cannabinoid because it contains no double bonds in its structure. Even less HHC than delta 8 is naturally present in the hemp plant; however, it is often produced significantly in a lab using THC.
Is HHC Legal?
HHC falls into legal limbo, like all cannabinoids generated from hemp. However, it is legal in most states as long as the goods are created using hemp as the primary raw material and the finished product has less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC. Despite the Farm Bill’s protection of certain hemp products, some states have chosen to prohibit them.
How Does HHC Work?
Although there are a few minor changes, HHC and delta-9 function similarly inside your body, it interacts with your body’s intricate biochemical network of receptors, endocannabinoids, and enzymes. This network of receptors is known as the endocannabinoid system, and each element functions in concert to put your body into balance or homeostasis.
Cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors are found throughout your brain and central nervous system, and HHC selectively targets these receptors. It targets the CB1 receptor, which results in a euphoric high in addition to several advantages like anti-inflammation, pain reduction, sleep promotion, and general health and wellness.
How Does HHC Make You Feel?
HHC does indeed cause a high. However, it differs slightly from THC. HHC has substantially softer effects than Delta-9 and is frequently contrasted with Delta-8. Although with a lower affinity than Delta-9, it has five carbon side chains that bind to the CB1 cannabinoid receptors. Many say the high improves mood while only slightly altering the intellect and cognition. With less psychotropic effects than Delta-9, it is typically more energizing than a sedative.
HHC and THC: Are they Different?
The effects of HHC are pretty similar to those of THC. Many users assert that it offers the best of both worlds and is like the love child of delta 9 and delta 8. Because it has psychotropic benefits without adverse side effects, it is considered a preferable alternative to delta 9. Along with the exhilaration and enthusiasm, HHC also has soothing qualities and is a calm, resting cannabinoid. It is closer to delta 8 THC because of this characteristic. Additionally, its adverse effects are far milder than those of THC.
How Does HHC Metabolize?
Generally speaking, HHC should leave your system between a few weeks to a few months, and everybody responds differently to it. So if you are taking a drug test soon, bear in mind that the duration of time HHC stays in your body is influenced by several variables, such as:
How Long Does HHC Last in Your System?
Generally speaking, HHC should leave your system between a few weeks to a few months, and everybody responds differently to it. Like other cannabinoids, the duration of time HHC stays in your body is influenced by several variables, such as:
- Amount Consumed
- Frequency of use
- Method of Consumption
- Metabolism
- Metabolic Competition
- Age
Factors Affecting How Long HHC Lasts In Your System
If HHC has a biological half-life similar to delta 8 THC, it likely has a half-life of about 30 minutes. The biological half-life merely reveals how long a chemical is present in your bloodstream. Several variables affect how long HHC stays in your body’s cells and tissues.
1. Quantity Consumed
Although it may seem simple, the quantity of HHC you consume plays a significant role in determining the result of your HHC drug test. Although your liver can only metabolize a certain amount of HHC at once, it does so fast. Taking twice as much HHC might stay in your system for an hour or two longer, but it won’t make a difference after a day.
2. Frequency of Use
Before taking your drug test, you must understand that it takes longer for your body to eliminate HHC when you regularly use it. The reason is that cannabinoids are fat-soluble, and HHC is removed from fat cells far more slowly than in the bloodstream. If you use it often, your body won’t have a chance to get rid of it, which will cause it to begin building up in your fat cells.
3. Method of Consumption
HHC is quickly absorbed through the lungs and into the bloodstream when inhaled through a cartridge, and this shortens the time it takes for your body to remove it from your system and enables your liver to begin processing it more quickly. Ingestion, in contrast, requires your body to process it twice as long because it must first go through the slow digestive system before it can be absorbed into the blood.
4. Metabolism
HHC concentrations decrease more quickly after use in individuals with fast metabolisms than those with slow metabolisms. The kidneys eliminate HHC from the body once the liver breaks it down. How quickly and effectively your liver and kidneys work impact your body’s ability to break down a complicated substance like HHC.
Your liver uses an enzyme called CYP3A4 to metabolize compounds that resemble THC. HHC is metabolized more quickly in those with higher CYP3A4 concentrations than in individuals with lower amounts.
5. Metabolic Competition
Metabolic competition is a less visible factor. Taking drugs with the same metabolic pathways as HHC can cause your body to process and eliminate both chemicals from your body much more slowly for two reasons. First, HHC will persist in your body, increasing the likelihood that you may fail a drug test. Additionally, your drugs may be more effective because of the slower processing. Although it could seem optimistic, that could be harmful. The best course of action is to avoid or minimize the usage of HHC while taking medicine, especially if a drug test is imminent.
6. Age
People’s metabolisms slow down as they age, making it more difficult for their bodies to handle drugs and chemicals. However, individual differences frequently outweigh age-related variances.
7. Drug Testing Method
Different testing techniques have various detection times. While some drug testing techniques may identify HHC for several months, others can only do so for a few days. Here is a brief explanation:
Blood tests – identifies THC metabolites for up to 36 hours after the previous use.
Saliva tests – THC metabolites can still be found in saliva up to 48 hours after the last use.
Urine tests – for light users, it takes about 15 days after the last use, while for frequent users, it takes about 30 days. A person who only consumes edibles might have positive results for about a week.
Hair sample test – THC metabolites can still be found in hair samples up to 90 days after previous use.
Why HHC Will Show Up on A Drug Test
This debate on HHC drug tests is still up for dispute. But according to research, HHC is more likely than not to show up on a drug test for two reasons.
1. HHC Metabolites Are Similar to THC
With a structure like THC and effects comparable to delta 8 and delta 9, this cannabinoid is a THC analog. The scarcity of investigation also reveals the similarities in their metabolites. Anecdotal data suggests that we are more likely to answer “yes,” although everyone’s opinion differs.
2. HHC Products Often Contain THC
Many dishonest individuals operating in the HHC sector fail to disclose basic product testing and contamination data. If you’re not attentive, you can be taken in by illegal items that contain more delta 9 THC than the legal limit of 0.3%. Only purchase from trustworthy vendors who can supply a thorough Certificate of Analysis like Truemoola.
Is it Possible to Get a False Positive on an HHC Drug Test?
A test returns a false positive means that it found THC even if you hadn’t used it. You might be curious about the likelihood of receiving a false-positive test result. According to the Harvey and Brown study, HHC breaks down into substances with a molecular structure similar to THC-COOH, but this time they contain hydroxyl groups. Another significant metabolite of delta 9 THC found in drug testing is THC-COOH. The body produces carboxy-THC as the second most considerable metabolite after hydroxy-THC. Drug tests detect exposure to this class of metabolites because they are inactive and cause no impairment.
An HHC drug test may identify these metabolites due to their fundamental structural and chemical similarity. Because the tests might not be able to detect the molecule, HHC might not lead you to fail a routine drug test. However, cross-contamination and a false-positive result are highly likely due to the similarities in chemical structure.
Final Verdict
We aren’t sure about whether or not standard 12-panel drug tests would pick HHC’s metabolites since there’s no official research around this question, so we advise you to get tested and see for yourself.
We hope this article has been helpful for more informative blog posts like this or to shop for your favorite cannabis products like prerolls, delta 8 THC gummies, CBD gummies, rechargeable vapes, CBD topicals, and more, visit our online store.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Delta 9?
One important cannabinoid that is prevalent in cannabis is delta 9 THC. Delta-9 THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. Though it is naturally occurring, beyond a certain point, delta-9 THC consumption or smoking usually results in a high.
How is Delta 9 legal?
While it has been made entirely legal in some jurisdictions, the federal government has not yet done the same.
The quick response is yes, some goods made with delta-9 THC are allowed. It’s a little trickier than that, though. Individual THC ratios and the plant from which that THC was derived determine the status of delta 9 gummies and other delta 9 products.
Are CBD gummies like THC gummies?
THC gummies are different from CBD gummies, and gummies with CBD are more expensive yet may benefit from various ailments. Despite being healthy, THC gummies don’t have the same effects as CBD, and they are typically less costly, and finding a high-quality version might be challenging. To get the best THC gummies in the USA, visit our site.
THC pills vs. gummies?
In the USA and the rest of the world, people prefer to buy THC pills for medical purposes because it is simpler to travel with a bottle of capsules rather than bags of gummy candies that could become brittle in hot weather. THC pills make it possible to dose precisely without consuming sweets or liquids. Compared to gummies, CBD capsules are more constant and absorbent, making them ideal for treating particular symptoms. Gummies are made to taste fantastic, despite this.
FAQs
Is HHC detectable in drug test? ›
Key takeaways: HHC will likely cause you to fail a drug test. Anecdotal reports suggest that HHC isn't detectable on a test, but there's no real evidence to verify that. The surefire way to avoid a positive drug test is to avoid using cannabinoids, including HHC.
Does HHC show up in saliva test? ›HHC will likely cause you to fail a drug test, so you should avoid using it if you know you will be tested soon. HHC is chemically similar to THC and will metabolize into many of the same compounds, including THC-COOH, which is one of the primary markers used to detect THC in a blood, urine, or saliva sample.
How long does HHC stay in saliva? ›HHC can be detected in your saliva for up to 2 days. HHC can be detected in your urine for up to 48 days. HHC can be detected in your hair for up to 90 days.
Does Delta-9 show up on drug screen? ›However, both delta-8 and delta-9 can make you feel intoxicated, and both may show up on a drug test.
Can you fail drug test with delta 10? ›The bad news is that yes, Delta-10 THC will make you fail a drug test. Much like Delta-8 THC, Delta-10 is a close cousin to Delta-9. It too has a similar chemical structure meaning that Delta-10 THC will most likely appear as THC on a standard drug test.
Is HHC federally legal? ›HHC-O is fully federally legal and legal 41 states, while Delta 9-THC is federally illegal and illegal in most states.
How long does it take for HHC to kick in? ›It starts to show effects in 30 to 45 minutes. The euphoric effect will stay with you for 2 to 6 hours. Typically, one gummy is the standard dosage. You can take fewer or more gummies depending upon your body weight, tolerance, experience, and other factors.
How does HHC tolerance work? ›This low tolerance means that you will be able to feel the effects of HHC more intensely, even with small doses. So, it's best to start with small amounts of HHC and then adapt accordingly. If you have more experience with intoxicating cannabinoids, you're more likely to tolerate higher doses of HHC.
Will CBD pop on military drug test? ›CBD alone is non-psychotropic, which means it doesn't produce the high associated with other marijuana components like THC. Although the levels may not be high, they can still result in a positive drug test, which can subject service members to disciplinary action.
Does HHC make your eyes red? ›Pretty much everything we know about HHC's effects and side effects is anecdotal. That said, users report the same set of side effects familiar to delta 9 THC users: anxiety and paranoia, dry mouth, dry and red eyes, hunger, and insomnia.
Will you test positive for delta 9? ›
As we stated above, both our full spectrum CBD products and Delta 9 gummies (a.k.a. high potency full spectrum CBD) include a measurable amount of THC. But if all our products are federally legal, does our Delta 9 THC show up on a standard drug test? Yes, all forms of THC will show up on a drug test.
Can you take too much HHC? ›High doses of HHC may have similar effects to taking too much THC and can lead to nausea, dizziness, lethargy, slow reaction times, paranoia, and anxiousness. There is no proof that HHC products are safe THC alternatives for passing drug tests.
Does Delta randomly drug test? ›Yes, Delta Air Lines does a drug test prior to an offer of employment. In addition, Delta Air Lines reserves the right to drug test an employee at any time if substance use is suspected or if a workplace accident occurs.
Can drug dogs smell delta 9 edibles? ›Possibly, but it's highly unlikely. When drug dogs are trained to find cannabis, they are trained to smell for caryophyllene oxide and beta-caryophyllene. Unless your delta-8 edible product has these added, dogs will not likely be able to smell it.
How long can delta 9 stay in your system? ›Delta 9 THC can be detected in the urine between two and four days after the last time it was used. If you use delta 9 THC products regularly, it may be detected in your urine as many as 30 days after the last time it was used. Delta 9 THC can be detected in the blood 24 to 48 hours after the last time it was used.
How safe is HHC? ›HHC is a cannabinoid that people typically produce synthetically. There's a lack of research on the safety and effects of HHC, which means that we don't know whether it could benefit or harm your health. If you do decide to use HHC, be sure to purchase third-party tested products from reputable companies.
How strong is HHC? ›HHC is not only shelf-stable and resistant to the UV rays and heat that degrades delta-9 THC, its effects are reportedly 50% to 80% as strong as medium-potency weed, which is to say, it's a low-stakes cannabinoid that leads to a mellower high.
What is HHC vs delta 8? ›The main difference between hhc and delta 8 is that hhc is a natural phytocannabinoid while delta 8 is an analog of THC. HHC has only been found in trace amounts in Cannabis sativa, while delta 8 can be produced synthetically.
What states have banned HHC? ›HHC is illegal in Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Mississippi, Nevada, New York, North Dakota, Utah, and Washington. While it is not explicitly stated, it is most likely illegal in Alaska, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Kentucky, Rhode Island, and Vermont.
Is HHC weaker than Delta 9? ›One of the most important practical differences between HHC and its THC cousins is potency. HHC is slightly stronger than delta 8 THC but not quite as powerful as delta 9 THC, making it a good option for people who want a little more than delta 8 can offer. Delta 8 is half as strong as delta 9.
What is HHC classified as? ›
Hexahydrocannabinol, or “HHC,” is a cannabinoid, which are naturally occurring compounds in cannabis plants. Scientists have found more than 100 cannabinoids. The most commonly known cannabinoids are Delta-9 THC and cannabidiol (CBD).
Is 50 mg of HHC a lot? ›Beginners: the recommended HHC dose will be 5 to 12 mg peruse. Intermediate: the recommended HHC dose will be 12 to 30 mg peruse. Pro: the recommended HHC dose will be 30 to 60 mg+ mg peruse.
Does HHC feel like delta9? ›HHC is known to have similar effects to Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC, as it does possess psychoactive properties. Users claim that the effects of the HHC cannabinoid are relaxing and euphoric and that they may help with nausea or promote better rest compared to traditional THC.
How many puffs does a HHC have? ›Enjoy HHC's benefits to your wellness today. Draw from disposable vape with an even pull. 920mg Device – HHC and Hemp Extract. Approximately 200-300 puffs.
Can I get fired for delta-8? ›So, even though Delta-8 isn't illegal, it will still show positive for THC and you will be fired for having it in your system.
Is HHC good for anxiety? ›What are the benefits of HHC? HHC is getting more attention due to its therapeutic effects like Delta-9THC. It is an appetite-stimulant mood stabilizer that helps ease anxiety and depression and reduces inflammation and pain. This makes it a good sleep aid as well.
How psychoactive is HHC? ›HHC is roughly 70-80% the strength of THC, meaning it's more potent than the other hemp derived cannabinoids Delta-8 and Delta-10. Moderate doses of HHC induce a euphoric psychoactive effect similar to THC but is often reported to having more relaxing and sedative qualities in comparison to Delta-8.
Can you smoke Delta 8 in military? ›Despite its availability, Delta-8 is an illegal substance in the Army and is strictly prohibited. “Per AR 600-85, The Army Substance Abuse Program, Soldiers are prohibited from using hemp or hemp derivative products,” he said.
Can CBD vape test positive? ›“CBD itself will not cause a false positive drug test but people can still test positive for marijuana because there could actually be small amounts of THC in these products, especially if they're made from hemp,” says Steve Dudley, director of the Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center.
Can military eat hemp? ›Eating Hemp: It's Not Just Another Plant
Take note, just because hemp products are available to the public does not mean you, as an active duty Service member, reservist or Guardsman, can eat them. Even though hemp is legal in the U.S., it is prohibited in any form* for you to use as a Service member.
Is HHC a synthetic cannabinoid? ›
Hexahydrocannabinol is the first semi-synthetic cannabinoid reported in the EU and has been monitored as a NPS by the EU Early Warning System since 21 October 2022. Unlike synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists found in Spice-type products, HHC can be made from cannabidiol extracted from low-THC cannabis (hemp).
Is HHC found in hemp? ›“Because HHC is naturally occurring in the hemp plant, it constitutes 'hemp' under the 2018 Farm Bill, [and it is] is not a federal controlled substance and is protected in interstate commerce.”
How long does HHC take to get out of your system? ›HHC can be stored in the body, so the more often you use it the longer it takes for all of it to be broken down and removed. For those who use HHC consistently, especially those who partake in daily use, it can take at least 30 days since your last use to clear your system.
Can I get fired for Delta 8? ›So, even though Delta-8 isn't illegal, it will still show positive for THC and you will be fired for having it in your system.
Can you fly with HHC? ›The Bottom Line. At last, though HHC products are legal and you can carry them during a flight, know that science does not back all of its effects.
Is HHC as strong as delta 8? ›HHC is less potent and does not have the same psychoactive effects as delta 8. However, it can still produce mild euphoria and relaxation. Delta 8 is more potent and can cause paranoia and anxiety in high doses.
Is HHC like Indica or Sativa? ›Speaking from a completely subjective experience (remember, everyone processes cannabinoids differently, so the experience of the Eighty Six team can vary wildly from person to person), the HHC high feels a lot like a true sativa whereas the Delta-8 high feels a lot like an indica or an indica-dominant hybrid.
Is HHC legal in all 50 states? ›HHC is illegal in Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Mississippi, Nevada, New York, North Dakota, Utah, and Washington. While it is not explicitly stated, it is most likely illegal in Alaska, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Kentucky, Rhode Island, and Vermont.
What happens if you take too much HHC? ›High doses of HHC may have similar effects to taking too much THC and can lead to nausea, dizziness, lethargy, slow reaction times, paranoia, and anxiousness. There is no proof that HHC products are safe THC alternatives for passing drug tests.
Why is HHC legal? ›The legality of HHC is murky. Some argue that, if HHC is synthetically produced from hemp, it's federally legal because of the 2018 Farm Bill. The Farm Bill made hemp legal throughout the U.S. and defined hemp as containing 0.3% or less delta-9 THC by dry weight.