If you have a looming drug test or an important job interview lined up in the near future, you’ll likely have concerns about whether or not HHC will show up in the results.
Since HHC is a relatively new cannabinoid just beginning to hit mainstream markets, there’s a lot we don’t know for certain. However, there is anecdotal evidence to show that HHC might be unique in that it can evade a drug test. In this article we’re going to outline everything we know about HHC and drug testing, and everything we don’t.
What does HHC stand for?
HHC stands for Hexahydrocannibinol.
What is HHC?
HHC is a cannabinoid found in the seeds and pollen of the hemp plant. Its chemical compound is different from THC, though it does give users a THC-lite experience. Read up on some of the reported effects of HHC.
Since HHC naturally occurs in small concentrations, most of its products are manufactured in a laboratory. During hydrogenation, THC is converted into HHC when a hydrogen molecule is saturated, altering its chemical structure to Delta-9 THC. Does HHC get you ‘high’?Â
HHC is thought to be 70-80% of the strength of THC, meaning it’s more potent than Delta-8 and Delta-10. This cannabinoid is here to stay as it is non-synthetic, which makes it a perfect federally legal hemp extraction.
Curious how HHC compares to other cannabinoids such as THC, CBD, and Delta-8? Check out our comparison guide!
Will HHC Show Up on a Drug Test?
So far, there is no evidence to suggest that HHC will not show up on a drug test.
However, there is some anecdotal evidence and first-hand accounts from users to suggest that HHC might evade detection on generic marijuana drug tests.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Users of HHC should use caution in choosing products, as some mixed products or full spectrum products may contain trace amounts of THC. Always check your product’s independent lab report (COA).
Standard drug tests are looking for the presence of THC. And HHC-specific testing is not routine. Standard urine tests don’t actually screen for THC in cannabis, instead, they detect metabolites created by the human body when we ingest THC.
There’s a possibility that HHC does not convert into 11-hydroxy-THC when ingested (like both Delta 8 and Delta 9 do), which is a common drug test metabolite. If this proves to be true, HHC could evade standard drug tests. However, there’s yet to be any real evidence to support this theory.
If HHC does break down into 11-hydroxy-THC or a similar metabolite, the result would be a failed drug test.
If you have an important drug test, we recommend playing it safe and staying away from HHC until there is more research to support any claims made by individuals. Here are some helpful tips for new HHC users!
How Long does HHC Stay in Your System?
The length of time that HHC remains in your body’s system is dependent on several factors. Depending on the amount of HHC consumed, the type of HHC consumed, and the type of test used to look for it, you can expect HHC to stay in your system for 90 days and up to six weeks.
An important factor to take into account is any trace amounts of other compounds such as Delta 8 or Delta 9 THC present in your HHC product.
Make sure you’re buying HHC products from reputable brands with lab tests (COA’s) available to prove purity and quality. Other factors include body fat percentage, how often HHC is consumed, and personal sensitivity to the drug.
Here are some guidelines on how long HHCÂ may stay in your system by test type:
Blood Test:
- Much is still unknown, but we can infer up to 90 days
Urine Test:
- Occasional Use: 1-5 days
- Regular/Light Users: 1-3 weeks
- Heavy Users: 4-6 weeks
Remember that everyone is different and drug testing and results are not an exact science. There is still a lot unknown and under-researched about HHC. Be sure to plan ahead in order to stay accountable so that the drug test will pass with flying colors.
