goMDnow Logo

Vaping is a popular alternative to smoking, but it may not be as harmless as some people think. Vaping involves inhaling and exhaling the vapor produced by an electronic device that heats up a liquid. The liquid usually contains nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals, some of which may be harmful to your health. But can vape pens also affect your drug test results? The answer depends on what kind of substance you are vaping and what kind of drug test you are taking. Here’s a brief overview of whether vaping can cause a failed drug test.

Also Read

Can secondhand smoke cause drug test failure?

What makes you fail a drug test?

Vaping and Nicotine Tests

Nicotine is the primary chemical found in most vaping liquids as well as in tobacco products. Nicotine is not an illegal substance, but some employers, insurance companies, or healthcare providers may test for it for various reasons. For example, some employers may have a nicotine-free policy, or some insurance companies may offer lower premiums for non-smokers. If you are taking a drug test that specifically tests for nicotine, then vaping will show up.

Vaping and THC Tests

THC is the psychoactive compound in marijuana that causes the high. While vaping does not involve burning plant material like smoking does, it can still result in the inhalation of THC. This is because many vaping liquids contain THC, or CBD, which is derived from cannabis plants. THC and CBD can be detected in drug tests, especially if you are vaping a high-potency product or using it frequently. THC and CBD can be detected in your urine, saliva, blood, or hair, depending on the type of test.

Detection Time: The detection time of THC and CBD varies depending on several factors, such as the amount and frequency of use, your metabolism, your hydration level, and your body fat percentage. Generally, THC can be detected in your urine for up to 30 days, in your saliva for up to 3 days, in your blood for up to 7 days, and in your hair for up to 90 days after your last use.

CBD can be detected in your urine for up to 15 days, in your saliva for up to 2 days, in your blood for up to 7 days, and in your hair for up to 90 days after your last use.

Suggested: How long do the effects last of Edibles?

Vaping and Synthetic Cannabinoids Tests

Synthetic cannabinoids are man-made chemicals that mimic the effects of THC. They are often sold as herbal blends, incense, or vape liquids under various names, such as Spice, K2, or Black Mamba. Synthetic cannabinoids are illegal and dangerous, as they can cause severe side effects such as psychosis, seizures, or even death. Synthetic cannabinoids can also be detected in drug tests, as they have similar chemical structures to THC. However, not all drug tests can detect synthetic cannabinoids, as there are hundreds of different types and they are constantly changing. Some drug tests can only detect specific synthetic cannabinoids, while others can detect a broader range of them. Synthetic cannabinoids can be detected in your urine, saliva, blood, or hair, depending on the type of test.

Detection Time: The detection time of synthetic cannabinoids varies depending on several factors, such as the amount and frequency of use, your metabolism, your hydration level, and your body fat percentage. Generally, synthetic cannabinoids can be detected in your urine for up to 3 days, in your saliva for up to 24 hours, in your blood for up to 48 hours, and in your hair for up to 90 days after your last use.

How to Avoid Failing a Drug Test Due to Vaping

If you are concerned about the potential effects of vaping on your drug test results, there are a few things you can do to avoid failing a drug test due to vaping:

  1. Avoid vaping products that contain THC, CBD, or synthetic cannabinoids. These substances can be detected in drug tests and may cause false positives or legal troubles. Read about:

    Top Reasons for False Positive Drug Test Results

  2. Be cautious when using vaping products that you are not familiar with or that do not have clear labels. Some vaping products may contain undisclosed ingredients or contaminants that could affect your drug test results.
  3. Be upfront with your employer, insurance company, or healthcare provider about your vaping habits. If you are vaping for medical reasons or as a smoking cessation aid, you may be able to explain your situation and provide documentation to support your claim.
  4. Consider quitting vaping altogether or switching to a safer alternative. Vaping can have serious health consequences, such as lung damage, heart disease, and addiction. Quitting vaping can improve your health and reduce your risk of failing a drug test.

Conclusion

Vaping can cause a failed drug test if the vaping liquid contains substances that can be detected in drug tests, such as nicotine, THC, CBD, or synthetic cannabinoids. The detection time of these substances depends on several factors, such as the type of test, the amount and frequency of use, and your individual characteristics. To avoid failing a drug test due to vaping, you should avoid vaping products that contain these substances, be cautious when using unfamiliar or unlabeled products, be honest with your tester, and consider quitting vaping or switching to a safer alternative. If you need help quitting vaping or have any questions about vaping or drug testing, you can contact goMDnow for professional advice and support.

goMDnow blog