Marijuana (THC) can stay in the system for varying lengths of time depending on factors like frequency of use, body fat, metabolism, and the type of drug test used. It can be detected in saliva for up to 24 hours, in blood for up to 12-36 hours (sometimes longer with chronic use), in urine from 1 day to over 30 days, and in hair for up to 90 days or more.
Detection Windows by Test Type
- Saliva test : THC detectable for up to 24 hours after use due to oral absorption.
- Blood test : Detectable for about 12 hours to 1.5 days; longer in heavy users, up to 7 days.
- Urine test : Most common; detection ranges from 1 day for infrequent users to over 30 days for heavy, chronic users.
- Hair test : Reflects long-term use, detecting THC for up to 90 days but less reliable for light or recent use.
Factors Influencing Duration
- Frequency of use : Occasional users clear THC faster than regular users.
- Body fat : THC is fat-soluble and stored in fatty tissues, prolonging detection.
- Metabolism and genetics : Affect the rate of THC metabolization.
- Amount and method of consumption : Smoking vs ingesting edible forms affect levels and detection.
In summary, marijuana can be detectable for anywhere from a few hours to up to 90 days in the system, depending on these variables and the testing method used.
