Table of Contents
How long does marijuana stay in your blood
Marijuana’s primary psychoactive compound, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), enters the bloodstream shortly after use. The detection time of THC in blood depends on several factors.
Method of Consumption
- Smoking/Vaping: THC enters the bloodstream within seconds to minutes.
- Oral ingestion: Absorption is slower, taking 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Duration of Detectability
- Occasional Users: THC remains detectable for 1–2 days.
- Frequent Users: Tests could be positive for up to seven days.
- Chronic/Heavy Users: Detectable up to 10 days or more, depending on usage history.
Biological Factors
- Metabolism: Faster metabolism clears THC quicker.
- Body Fat: THC is lipophilic and stored in fat; higher fat content = longer retention.
- Hydration and Exercise: May influence the rate of THC release from fat stores.
Type of Test
- Recent consumption is indicated by the detection of active THC in blood tests.
- Blood tests are used in accidents, impairment cases, or acute intoxication assessments.
Summary
While THC generally leaves the bloodstream within 1–2 days in light users, heavy or daily use can extend this to 7–10+ days, due to THC’s fat-solubility and cumulative storage in the body.
