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How long does marijuana stay in your system
The length of time marijuana stays in your system depends on several factors including frequency of use, metabolism, body fat percentage, and the type of drug test administered. The primary psychoactive compound in marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is lipid-soluble, meaning it is stored in fat cells and released slowly over time.
Detection Windows by Test Type:
- Urine Tests: The most typical drug tests are these ones. For occasional users (one to two times per week), THC metabolites can typically be detected for up to 3 days. For moderate users (several times per week), detection windows range from 5 to 7 days. Chronic daily users may test positive for 10–30 days or more after last use.
- Blood Tests: THC is detectable in the blood for a shorter time. Occasional users may test positive for 1–2 days, while heavy users may show THC presence for up to a week. However, blood tests are more effective for identifying recent use (within hours).
- Saliva Tests: THC can be detected in saliva for up to 24–72 hours in occasional users. It might be noticeable in long-term users for as long as a week.
- Hair Tests: THC metabolites can be detected in hair follicles for up to 90 days. This test reflects long-term use rather than recent consumption.
Influencing Factors:
- Frequency and dosage: Higher doses and more frequent use lead to longer detection times.
- Metabolism: Individuals with faster metabolisms eliminate THC faster.
- Body Fat: Since THC binds to fat, individuals with higher body fat may retain it longer.
In summary, marijuana can remain in your system from a few days to several weeks depending on usage patterns and testing method. While single use clears relatively quickly, chronic use can result in prolonged detection windows.
