THC detectable: duration and factors of detectability in the body

THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, is gaining more and more attention. Of particular interest is the question of how long THC remains detectable in the body. This information is important not only for consumers, but also for employers and legislators who conduct drug tests.

The detectability of THC depends on various factors, such as the frequency of consumption, body fat percentage and the test method used. Whether in urine, blood or hair - each method has its own detection times and sensitivities. This article looks at how long THC can be detected after consumption and which factors influence detectability.

Key messages

- The detectability of THC varies depending on the frequency of consumption, body fat percentage and the test method used.

- THC can be detected in blood, urine, hair and saliva, with each method having different detection times.

- Regular consumption leads to longer detectability, while occasional consumption has a shorter detection time.

- Physical factors such as body fat percentage and metabolic rate influence the duration of detectability of THC.

- In road traffic, strict limits apply for THC in the blood; exceeding these limits can lead to fines, points in Flensburg and driving bans.

- Medical-psychological reports (MPU) are often required in cases of repeated violations under the influence of THC in order to check the driver's suitability to drive.

What is THC?

THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main active ingredient in cannabis. It binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and causes the psychoactive effect. THC was first isolated in 1964 by Raphael Mechoulam and Yechiel Gaoni in Israel. The chemical formula is C₂₁H₃₀O₂.

Effects of THC

The psychoactive effects of THC include euphoria, altered perception of time, and increased appetite. At high doses, anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations occur. THC also affects the cardiovascular system by increasing the heart rate.

Different types of THC

There are several forms of THC, including delta-9 THC, which is found in most cannabis strains, and delta-8 THC, which is less psychoactive. THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is a precursor to THC and only develops psychoactive properties after decarboxylation, which is a heating process.

THC and its metabolites

In the body, THC is broken down primarily in the liver. The main metabolites are 11-OH-THC and THC-COOH. THC-COOH is not psychoactive, but is the most commonly detected drug in drug tests. It has a longer half-life and therefore stays in the body longer.

Medical use of THC

THC is used in medicine to treat nausea and vomiting in chemotherapy, loss of appetite in HIV/AIDS, and chronic pain. Sativex, a mouth spray, contains THC and CBD and is used in multiple sclerosis.

Legal status of THC

The legal status of THC varies worldwide, including in Switzerland. In Switzerland, cannabis with a THC content of over 1% is illegal. However, since 2011, possession of small amounts (up to 10 grams) for personal consumption is not punishable, but only subject to a fine. Medical cannabis has been permitted in Switzerland since 2022, but only on prescription and under strict conditions. Cannabis products with a THC content of less than 1%, such as CBD products, are legal and widely available. However, the handling of THC remains heavily regulated.

THC degradation in the body

Metabolic process

THC is broken down in the body primarily in the liver. The metabolism of THC produces two primary metabolites: 11-hydroxy-THC (11-OH-THC) and carboxy-THC (THC-COOH). 11-OH-THC is psychoactive and is further converted to THC-COOH, which is non-psychoactive.

Timeframe of dismantling

The time it takes for THC to clear depends on several factors, including frequency of use and the person's body fat percentage. In infrequent users, THC can be detected in urine samples for about 1 to 3 days. Regular users can have THC residue in their urine for up to 15 days or longer.

Influencing factors

Several factors influence how long THC and its metabolites are detectable in the body:

- Frequency of consumption : Frequent consumption leads to longer detectability.

- Body fat content : THC is stored in fat cells; higher fat content can prolong the excretion time.

- Metabolic rate : A faster metabolism leads to faster breakdown and excretion of THC.

Detectability in body fluids

THC and its metabolites can be detected in various body fluids:

- Urine : THC-COOH is the most commonly detected substance in urine and is used in drug tests.

- Blood : THC can be detected in the blood for up to 24 hours, longer in chronic users.

- Saliva : THC can be detected in saliva for approximately 1 to 3 days, depending on the frequency of consumption.

Duration of effects of THC

The psychoactive effects of THC last on average 2 to 3 hours after consumption, but can vary with different consumption methods. Edibles can have a longer effect of up to 8 hours, while inhaling smoke or vapor produces a shorter but more intense effect.

Degradation products

The main breakdown products of THC, 11-OH-THC and THC-COOH, play a significant role in the detection process. 11-OH-THC has a short half-life, while THC-COOH has a longer half-life, making it more reliable for long-term detection.

These processes and factors together influence how long THC remains detectable in the body.

Methods for THC detection

THC can be detected in various body fluids and tissues. Each method has its specific advantages and limitations.

THC in the blood

THC can be detected quickly in the blood after consumption. It is detectable for a few hours shortly after consumption. However, chronic users have longer detectability due to storage in fat cells.

THC in urine

The urine test is one of the most common methods for detecting THC. The test is suitable for screening for long-term use because the metabolites of THC remain in the urine for a longer period of time.

THC in hair

Hair analysis offers the longest detection period for THC. Hair stores THC over a long period of time, which allows analysis of consumption patterns over several months.

THC in saliva

THC can be detected in saliva for a short time and is therefore well suited to detecting recent consumption. The method is less invasive and is often used in traffic checks.

Factors that influence the detectability of THC

Factors can vary greatly as to how long THC can be detected in the body. Frequency, physical aspects and lifestyle all have a significant influence on detectability.

Frequency of consumption

Frequent use, such as by chronic users, increases the accumulation of THC in the body. Daily use results in higher concentrations and longer detectability in blood, urine, and other body fluids. Occasional use, such as once a month, often results in shorter detectability.

Physical factors

Physical attributes affect THC detectability. People with higher body fat percentages store more THC as it accumulates in fat cells. A higher metabolic rate, which varies between individuals, leads to faster degradation and shorter detection time. Age and gender are also relevant as they affect metabolism.

Lifestyle and diet

Lifestyle plays a role in THC detection. A healthy lifestyle with regular exercise promotes the faster elimination of THC. Dietary factors such as a low-fat diet and high fluid consumption support the cleansing process and shorten the detection time. Detoxification programs and sauna visits can also have an influence.

THC in road traffic

THC in traffic poses a significant risk as it can impair driving ability. There are strict regulations and limits to ensure road safety.

Limits and legal consequences

In Germany, the limit for THC in the blood is 1 ng/ml. Drivers who exceed this limit must expect severe penalties. These include fines, points on their license and driving bans. The sanctions vary depending on the federal state and the circumstances of the violation. Accidents under the influence of THC can result in liability damages and criminal consequences.

Medical-psychological report (MPU)

Anyone who repeatedly drives under the influence of THC or is caught driving often has to take an MPU. This test checks the driver's suitability to drive and determines whether the person in question poses a risk. If the MPU is passed, the driver gets their license back. The MPU includes medical examinations, psychological tests and interviews. It is known as the "idiot test" and requires thorough preparation.

The MPU can also include preventive measures such as drug therapy and training. Such measures are intended to ensure that the driver does not relapse. Even after the MPU, follow-up checks are occasionally carried out to check long-term abstinence.

Conclusion

The detectability of THC in the body depends on many factors, including frequency of consumption and metabolic rate. Particular caution is required when driving, as even small amounts of THC in the blood can lead to legal consequences. The strict limits and the associated sanctions such as fines and driving bans underline the importance of responsible use. Anyone who drives under the influence of THC must expect to undergo an MPU, which can include preventive measures such as drug therapy. Long-term abstinence is monitored by follow-up checks to ensure road safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can you drive again after consuming cannabis?

There is no exact answer as to when it is safe to drive again after smoking weed. Depending on how often and in what quantities cannabis is consumed, the breakdown of THC in the blood may be delayed. However, you should generally wait at least 24 hours.

How long does it take for the drug test to be negative?

As a rule of thumb, THC can be detected for six to 24 hours. In exceptional cases, however, THC can be detected for up to 72 hours, especially when the breakdown product THC-COOH is examined in the blood.

How many nanograms does a chronic smoker have in his blood?

Studies show that the THC level in chronic smokers can be between 1.3 and 6.4 nanograms per milliliter of blood one to two days after the last consumption.

When is the THC level below 1 ng/ml?

Occasional users usually reach a THC level below the limit of 1 ng THC/ml blood serum after six to seven hours. After three to five hours, levels below 3.5 ng/ml can be reached.

How long can THC be detected in the blood in Switzerland?

THC can be detected in saliva between 24 and 72 hours after consumption. THC can be detected in urine between three and 30 days, and in hair up to 90 days after consumption.