In the ever-evolving world of cannabis and hemp-derived products, new cannabinoids are constantly gaining popularity. One of the most talked-about is tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, or THCa. As the precursor to the well-known psychoactive compound Delta-9 THC, THCa has carved out a unique space for itself in the market. But with its rise in popularity, a crucial question arises for many consumers: does THCa show up on a drug test?
This article provides a detailed look at the science behind THCa, how drug tests work, and the factors that influence whether using THCa products could lead to a positive result. This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or medical advice.
What is THCa? The Non-Psychoactive Precursor
THCa is an acidic compound abundant in fresh, raw cannabis plants. Unlike Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol, THCa is non-psychoactive and won’t get you high. This is because its molecule has an extra carboxyl group, preventing it from binding to your body’s cannabinoid receptors within the endocannabinoid system. When THCa is heated through processes like smoking or vaping, it undergoes decarboxylation.
This process removes the carboxyl group, converting the non-psychoactive THCa into psychoactive Delta-9 THC, the compound responsible for the classic cannabis effects. This is why THCa flower and other THCa products are popular.
Can THCa Cause a Positive Drug Test?
Yes, but it depends on how you consume it. While THCa itself is not the target of most drug tests, if the way you consume it heats it up, it results in its conversion to THC. This conversion of the THCa in fresh cannabis plants is what leads to the creation of the THC-COOH metabolite, which is precisely what drug tests are designed to detect.
Even when consumed as raw cannabis, there is no guarantee of a negative result due to the potential for trace amounts of THC and cross-reactivity in some tests. The time it takes for a person’s system to flush out these compounds can be highly unpredictable, influenced by everything from metabolic rate to body fat percentage and frequency of use.
How Different Drug Testing Detects Cannabis
Here are some of the most common drug tests used to detect cannabis:
The window of detection for cannabis and its metabolites varies significantly depending on the type of test being administered, as well as the individual’s physiology and cannabis use habits.
- Urine Test (Urinalysis): This is the most common type of drug test used. For an occasional user, THC-COOH may be detectable for 1 to 15 days after use. For heavy users or those with a higher body fat percentage, the detection window is on the longer side. This is because THC-COOH accumulates in fat cells and is released slowly. (M. Huestis et al., 1995)
- Blood Test: A blood test has a much shorter detection window, typically only up to 12 hours to 3 days after use. Blood tests are less common for general drug screening but may be used in cases of impaired driving or accidents to determine recent use. (N. Raikos et al., 2014)
- Saliva Test (Mouth Swab Test): The detection time for an oral drug test is also relatively short, usually 5 to 24 hours. This type of test is often used for roadside drug screenings or in some workplace settings because it is quick and non-invasive. (Ahmed Jehanli et al., 2001)
- Hair Test (Hair Follicle Tests): Hair drug tests have the longest detection window, capable of detecting cannabis use for up to 90 days or more. When you use cannabis, the drug metabolites circulate in your bloodstream and are incorporated into your hair follicles as your hair grows. This provides a long-term record of drug use. (Bjoern Moosmann et al., 2015)
It’s important to note that these detection windows apply mainly to THC.
While THCa alone is unlikely to appear on standard drug tests, it may undergo metabolic conversion into THC within the body or after heating, which could trigger a positive result.
The Crucial Factors That Influence a Positive Result
The question of whether THCa shows up on a drug test isn’t a simple “yes” or “no.” The answer depends on several key factors:
Method of Consumption
This is the most important factor. If you consume raw cannabis or THCa products in their raw forms, such as through a smoothie or tincture that has not been heated, you are primarily ingesting THCa. In theory, this shouldn’t produce a positive result for THC-COOH.
However, trace amounts of THC may still be present due to minimal decarboxylation over time, and some lab tests may cross-react with other cannabinoid compounds. Conversely, if you are smoking, vaping, or using edibles made with heated THCa, you are consuming THC, and a positive drug test is highly likely.
Frequency and Dosage
A chronic, heavy user who consumes high-potency cannabis flowers or products will have a much higher concentration stored in their system than an occasional user. The more frequently you use, and the higher the dosage, the longer it will take for your body to eliminate the drug metabolites.
Individual Metabolism and Body Composition
Every person’s metabolism is different. A faster metabolic rate allows the body to process and excrete substances more quickly. Since THCa can be metabolized into THC and both are fat-soluble, individuals with higher body fat percentages may retain these metabolites longer, increasing the likelihood of extended detection windows.
The Specifics of the Test
Not all drug tests are created equal. The sensitivity of the test and the cutoff level (the concentration of THC-COOH required for a positive result) can vary between different employers and testing facilities.
There is a wide variety of factors that influence how long thca and thc products remain visible on drug tests, so it’s always important to consider these factors
How Long Does THCa Stay in Your System?
When consumed orally in its raw form, such as in a full-spectrum CBD product, THCa and its metabolites can be detected in plasma (the fluid component of blood) for up to 48 hours. Interestingly, THCa reaches its peak concentration faster and is eliminated from the body more rapidly than THC.
However, if you’re smoking or vaping THCa, it converts to THC. The resulting drug metabolites are fat-soluble, meaning they can be detected in a standard urine test for days or even weeks, depending on the user’s frequency and dosage. (Harrison J Elder., 2025)
Why Might You Be Drug Tested?
You may be drug tested for cannabis for a variety of reasons, so it is important to beware of the possible outcomes when consuming THCa. Many employers and federal regulations have strict rules about drug testing policies, particularly in industries where safety is a concern.
The reasons for testing vary widely and are often linked to specific circumstances or job requirements. Here are just a few:
- Pre-Employment Screening: Companies, especially those in workplace settings with safety-sensitive roles, often require a drug test as part of the hiring process. This is to ensure new hires are not a risk to themselves or others.
- Post-Accident Testing: Following an accident or injury, individuals involved may undergo drug testing. This is done to determine if cannabis or other substances contributed to the incident.
- Random Drug Testing: In certain scenarios, individuals can be randomly selected for a drug test without prior notice. This is a common practice to deter substance abuse.
- Court-Ordered or Legal Mandates: Individuals on probation, parole, or involved in a custody case may be ordered by a court to undergo drug testing to prove abstinence from cannabis and other substances.
Explore High-Quality THCa Products in Texas
At High Fidelity Company, we offer a curated selection of THCa products, crafted with the utmost care for cannabis enthusiasts. Our offerings center on the raw, non-psychoactive form of the compound, allowing the user to experience its full potential whilst still adhering to all federally legal guidlines.
From our THCa flower to our CBD essentials, our products are designed to deliver a potent and flavorful experience. We also feature a selection other forms, such as pre-rolls and concentrates, that are perfect for those who appreciate the purity and integrity of the original plant.