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Will CBD show up on a drug test?

May 8, 2025

In Part Three of vybe’s series about cannabis, we take a closer look at CBD. Will it trigger a positive drug test?

Cannabidiol, which is commonly known as CBD, is increasingly popular, especially with marijuana users. People who use cannabis are 13 times more likely to use CBD, as it may deliver therapeutic benefits without the intoxicating high.

While federally legal, there are still risks associated with taking CBD. These risks may vary based on quality and frequency of use. Keep reading to learn the potential risks of CBD and why CBD might trigger a positive drug test.

Is CBD legal?

Federally, CBD is legal. In Pennsylvania, CBD products must comply with (but not limited to) the following rules:

  • The product is derived from hemp (a cannabis plant that is low in THC and high in CBD). If the product is marijuana-sourced CBD oil or another marijuana-derived CBD product, it must be prescribed by a doctor.
  • The product is not an edible.
  • The product is clearly labeled with the permit number and address of the grower, the amount of active CBD per serving, the expiration date, storage instructions and warnings.
  • The product contains less than .3% of THC.

You must be 18 or older to purchase CBD from most sellers (convenience stores, etc.), or 21 or older to purchase from a smoke shop.

What are the risks of CBD?

The most popular ways to use CBD, orally or inhaling, come with the following risks:

Dosage risks
High doses of CBD can increase your risk of side effects and may damage your liver over time. Starting with a lower dose of CBD will help you to monitor initial side effects including drowsiness, dry mouth, diarrhea, and dizziness.

Building tolerance
Building a tolerance to CBD is less likely than with THC. If a tolerance develops, you’ll need larger quantities of CBD to feel the same effects, making dosage risks a concern. Plus, the more frequently you vape or smoke CBD, the greater the risk of lung damage and/or increased blood pressure.

Drug interactions
CBD may interact with certain prescriptions and over-the-counter medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. These drugs include blood thinners, antidepressants, statins, sedatives, and more. To help avoid this, always check with a healthcare provider before starting a new medication or taking CBD.

Psychological effects
While research has shown that CBD is not addictive, evidence suggests it can potentially worsen anxiety and depression symptoms.

Poor-quality products
The FDA does not regulate over-the-counter CBD products, and with so many products on the market, quality can vary. You should purchase from a reputable herbal medicine, vitamin, or supplement store, as these products are more likely to be tested and accurately labeled.

The risks associated with CBD vary from person to person and by the amount taken. You should always talk to a healthcare provider before using any form or amount of CBD.

If you are experiencing pain, anxiety, insomnia, or other health concerns, your vybe clinician can provide you with an evaluation and treatment plan. You should not attempt to self-remedy with CBD or THC.

Can you fail a drug test after taking CBD?

Yes. There are different types of CBD, including full spectrum and broad spectrum products. Broad spectrum CBD removes all other compounds in the product, while full spectrum CBD can legally include up to .3% of THC (the compound that produces an intoxicating high and is detectable on drug screenings).

To lower your risk of triggering a positive drug test, choose products that are 100% CBD. CBD isolates are created through a process that extracts and purifies the CBD, removing all other compounds (including THC). Look for terms like 100% CBD, THC-free, and broad spectrum.

While following the above tips will improve your chance of passing a drug test, it is not a guarantee. To be 100% safe, stop using all CBD products 30 days prior to a scheduled drug test.

Consider the facts about CBD use

Overall, CBD is a popular alternative to THC as it may offer therapeutic benefits without the psychoactive effects. However, there are still risks associated with using CBD – and it could still result in a positive drug test if there are traces of THC in your product.

Drug testing at vybe

vybe offers rapid drug testing, employment-related drug screenings, and other urgent care services 7 days a week with extended weeknight hours. Walk into any vybe location or schedule an appointment today!

If you’re a marijuana user who consumes edibles, check out Part One of our series to find out if edibles are preferable to smoking and Part Two to learn about edibles and drug testing. Still have questions? Visit your nearest vybe.

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About vybe

vybe urgent care is Philadelphia’s leading independent urgent care provider delivering care to adults and children throughout the Philadelphia region. Open 7 days a week, vybe delivers an affordable and convenient alternative to long emergency room wait times and the limited hours of family physicians. In addition to welcoming walk-ins, vybe offers telemedicine for those who wish to see a doctor online. vybe accepts major insurance plans and provides a comprehensive range of urgent care services such as illness and injury treatment, digital x-rays, EKG, lab testing, physicals, immunizations, and occupational medicine. Find the medical care you need with the convenience you want at vybe urgent care locations throughout the Philadelphia area.