How Long Does THC Stay in Your System? More Facts About Weed

Understanding how long THC stays in your system is crucial for those navigating recovery or supporting a loved one through addiction. THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, can linger in your body, affecting drug tests and your overall health.

This article aims to provide clear, empathetic guidance on THC's duration in your system, helping you make informed decisions and seek the appropriate support.

What Is THC?

Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the compound in marijuana that causes most of its psychological impacts. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), it operates similarly to cannabinoid compounds produced by the human body.

Cannabinoid receptors or synapses focus on specific brain portions linked with cognition, satisfaction, thinking, time perception, and coordination. As per NIDA, THC binds to these internal receptors, triggers them, and influences an individual's pleasure, coordination, attention, time, and sensory perception.

THC is among the numerous chemicals in the waxy substance released by the marijuana plant's glands. More such glands are present near the plant's reproductive system than anywhere else. This resin contains cannabinoids, which are marijuana-specific chemicals. According to the NCBI, a specific cannabinoid, CBD, is not psychotropic and prevents the euphoria that comes from THC.

How Long Does It Take THC to Take Effect?

The effects of THC are visible instantly after smoking or consuming it. When cannabis is consumed, the effects may require anywhere from one to three hours to become apparent. THC, cannabis's main psychoactive component, causes the sensation of being "high," causing extreme side effects that might include:

• Delusions or hallucinations when consumed in large quantities

• Sudden shifts in behavior

• Trouble concentrating and critical thinking

• Defective memory

• Distorted senses, including time perception

Several short-term implications can involve:

• Anxiety

• Reduced concentration level

• Irritation or agitation

• Increased heartbeat

• Excessive sleep

• Increased hunger

• Turmoil

• Nervousness

• Dry eyes and mouth

• Dizziness

• Nausea or sickness

In some instances, high doses of THC can result in delusions, psychotic behavior, and strange visions. Smoking or consuming THC frequently might cause further impacts on your body and mind. While research studies have been inconsistent, using THC or weed might put some individuals at a higher risk of acquiring:

• Psychosis

• Impaired cognition

• Impaired memory

• learning disabilities

• Hallucinations or delusions

• Clinical depression

• Panic disorder

• Cardiovascular conditions like heart attack or stroke

• Breathing illnesses like lung conditions and bronchitis

There are many cases when a pregnant woman consumes weed to cope with hormonal issues or trauma. However, lack of awareness is the main reason why expecting mothers or people in general misuse drugs. They are unaware of the detrimental effects it may have on their genes and hence their baby. Pregnant or breastfeeding mothers are advised not to consume THC as there is an increased risk that the infant will acquire birth disabilities or issues with behavioral growth.

How Long Do The Effects of THC Last?

The short-term impacts of weed or THC start to wean off following one to three hours, as stated by NIDA. However, scientists are unsure about how long the impacts of persistent use last. Side effects of long-term usage can last a few days to several months after it is no longer used. Certain effects might also be permanent if the person suffers from co-occurring conditions.

The Half-Life of THC & Its Metabolic Process

When an individual smokes or consumes cannabis, THC gets absorbed into the circulatory system. Certain metabolites of THC are kept briefly in fat-laden tissues and organs. THC is then degraded in the liver.

Drug examination searches for these derivatives of THC, which remain in your system for more time than THC. Gradually, THC and its derivatives are eliminated in feces and urine. The time it takes for THC compounds to be eliminated is determined by the frequency with which cannabis is used. An increased initial level of THC compounds is related to more regular use. The more THC derivatives a person has in their system, the longer it takes to eliminate them.

A half-life is the period it takes your system to process half of a medication. The half-life of THC changes according to the frequency of use. Individuals who use THC or weed could anticipate a half-life of around 30 hours. In contrast, individuals who consume THC regularly can expect a half-life of five to thirteen days.

Is There Anything You Can Do to Speed up the Metabolization?

There is nothing you can do to increase the duration of THC excretion. When THC enters your body, your system must digest it. Working out, getting complete nutrition, and keeping hydrated might help a little, but not wholly.

What Does Laboratory Testing for THC Indicate?

THC, short for delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is among the most prevalent constituents of weed or cannabis. Drug analysis calculates THC and its metabolites or molecules. These molecules stay in your body much longer after the effects of THC have faded.

The length of time cannabis remains noticeable in your system is determined by the amount you smoke or consume and the kind of drug test conducted.

Urine Test

The most prevalent technique of drug testing is urine testing. While identification windows differ, a 2017 study on the Clinical Interpretation of Urine Drug Tests reveals that marijuana may be found in urine for the following periods of time after the previous use:

• A single dose - three days

• Occasional dose (4 times each week) - five to seven days

• Persistent dose (regularly) - ten to fifteen days

• Persistent use with high doses - longer than thirty days

Blood Test

Because THC or weed only stays in the system briefly, blood draws for cannabis testing are not commonly employed. This is because, while THC enters the bloodstream fast (within moments of smoking), the levels of THC in the circulation rapidly fall 3 to 4 hours after intake.

Saliva Test

The oral swab allows for a quick, non-intrusive drug test. A swab or absorbent patch is rubbed along the gums around the teeth or the inner portion of the cheek. Studies show that THC is significantly absorbed in the mouth, increasing levels for many hours after consumption.

Hair Test

When it comes to THC or cannabis testing via hair samples, it has a much-extended detection time frame. Hair samples can show cannabis use for 3 months. But, studies show that hair analysis is mainly valid for regular or frequent consumers but is unable to identify mild intake of marijuana.

How Long Does THC Stay in Your System?

Generally, THC metabolites are detectable in the body for 1 to 30 days after last use. Regular cannabis users may have elevated THC levels even after abstinence.

The Clinical Interpretation of Urine Drug Tests reveals that THC might be identified in the urine for 5-7 days following the previous dose when consumed rather occasionally. In persistent users, THC derivatives might be identified in the urine for over thirty days following the last dose. As for blood tests, THC compounds might still be found thirty days after the last dose in regular weed consumers.

Which Elements Affect the Detection Time Frame?

Aside from the sort of test, the following factors can influence how long THC appears on a drug test:

• The quantity of THC compounds in cannabis or marijuana

• Gender, sex, body weight, general health, hereditary factors, and degree of hydration of the patient

• Accuracy and sensitivity of the drug test

• The method of administration—THC penetrates the blood circulations and other organs more rapidly when cannabis is smoked rather than consumed orally.

• The amount and regularity of drug use

• Digestive capacity and excretion paths of the patient

Is THC Addictive?

Yes, THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana, can be addictive. Regular use can lead to the development of tolerance, dependence, and addiction. This condition, known as cannabis use disorder, affects approximately 9% of users, with the risk increasing to 17% for those who start using during adolescence.

Symptoms of cannabis addiction include cravings, withdrawal symptoms like irritability and anxiety, and continued use despite negative consequences. If you or a loved one struggles with THC addiction, seeking professional help is crucial. Our recovery treatment center provides the support and resources needed to overcome addiction and achieve lasting recovery.

Symptoms of THC Addiction and Misuse

Addiction to THC is most typically diagnosed during youth or early adulthood. Recent developments toward higher cultural acceptance of cannabis usage and a growing number of both pleasurable and medical versions of the medication could still raise the addiction rate among older persons. Marijuana addiction (clinically referred to as cannabis use disorder) has psychological and physical indicators similar to other forms of substance addiction.

Psychological or mood shifts include:

• Lack of sensory perception

• Loss of coordination

• Disorientation

• Trouble concentrating

• Continuous issues with understanding and memory

Various other indicators of THC or cannabis misuse involve:

• Lack of coordination

• Blurry vision

• Slow processing time

• Increased appetite

• Anxiety

• Increased heart rate

• Coughing fits with mucus

• Paranoia

• Dry mouth

• Eye redness

• Bloodshot eye

• Poor memory

THC Withdrawal Symptoms

Continuous dependence on drugs is accompanied by many THC withdrawal effects, which generally grow within a week of stopping the use. The most usual THC symptoms of withdrawal are mentioned below:

• Irritation, rage, or hostility

• Sleeping problems

• Appetite suppression or weight loss

• Agitation

• Depressed state

• Anxiety or nervousness

• Bodily symptoms like gastrointestinal issues, tremors, high temperature, headaches, profuse sweating, or chills

Because most of these symptoms of withdrawal are similar to warning indications of other diseases and issues. An expert evaluation by an addiction professional is required to determine whether cannabis or THC withdrawal could be the cause.

Worried About the Effects of THC on Your Life? You’re Not Alone

Knowing how long THC stays in your system is essential for making informed decisions about your health and recovery journey.

If you’re worried about what THC consumption is doing to you, it’s time to reevaluate your relationship. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, The Forge Recovery Center is here to provide the support and guidance needed to achieve a successful recovery. Contact us today to take the first step toward a healthier, substance-free life.

Written by

Brian Moore

Content Writer

Reviewed by

Jeremy Arzt

Chief Clinical Officer

July 26, 2024