Will THCa show up on a drug test? That’s one of the most common questions we hear from customers here at The Dispensary on Main in Galesburg, IL. Whether you’re gearing up for a job interview or just want to stay informed, understanding how THCa—and other cannabinoids like CBD, CBG, and THCV—affect standard drug tests is important.
Let’s break it down.
What Is THCa—and Does It Show Up?
THCa (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is the raw, non-psychoactive form of THC. It’s found in fresh or unheated cannabis and only becomes active THC when exposed to heat (through smoking, vaping, or cooking).
Here’s the key takeaway:
👉 Most drug tests aren’t looking for THCa—they’re looking for THC metabolites, like THC-COOH, that your body creates after consuming decarboxylated (heated) THC.
So if you’re consuming raw THCa flower, it’s less likely to result in a positive drug test.
But if you’re smoking or vaping THCa, you’re essentially converting it into regular THC—and that will likely show up on a drug test.
What About CBD?
CBD (cannabidiol) is non-psychoactive and should not show up on a drug test—unless the product you’re using contains trace amounts of THC. Full-spectrum CBD products often include small amounts of THC (under 0.3%), and with regular use, even that tiny amount can build up in your system enough to trigger a positive test result.
If you’re worried about testing, stick to broad-spectrum CBD or CBD isolate.
Will CBG or THCV Trigger a Positive?
CBG (Cannabigerol)
CBG is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid known for its calming and focus-enhancing effects. It does not convert into THC, and on its own, should not result in a positive test.
However, as with CBD, you need to check if your product is full-spectrum, as it might contain trace THC.
THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)
This one’s a little trickier. THCV has a molecular structure similar to THC, but it behaves differently—it can be uplifting at low doses and appetite-suppressing at higher ones. Standard drug tests aren’t built to detect THCV directly, but high doses may cause a false positive, especially if you’re using a product that also contains THC.
So What’s the Safe Route?
If you’re trying to avoid a positive drug test:
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- Avoid smoking or vaping THCa.
- Use CBD and CBG isolates or broad-spectrum products with no detectable THC.
- Be cautious with THCV, especially if you’re using full-spectrum blends or extracts.
And of course, always check your product’s lab results (COAs)—at The Dispensary on Main, we only carry lab-tested products so you can shop with confidence.
Shop Responsibly in Galesburg
Whether you’re exploring cannabinoids for wellness, focus, or relaxation, we’re here to help you find what works—with clarity and transparency. Stop by our Galesburg dispensary to talk with our knowledgeable team or browse lab-tested products for every lifestyle.
