Busting the Myths: Can Second-Hand Smoke Make You Fail a Drug Test?
The popularity of marijuana is growing, and so are different misconceptions regarding its impacts. In this article, we cover the common concern of whether secondhand smoke can make you fail a drug test.
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Can a Secondhand Smoke Get You High?
One of the main worries about secondhand marijuana smoke is the possibility of experiencing a "contact high." While it's theoretically possible to inhale enough THC (the psychoactive component in marijuana) from secondhand smoke to affect a drug test, the actual likelihood is quite low.
Studies have shown that the amount of THC absorbed through passive exposure is typically minimal and quickly metabolized by the body. Therefore, while secondhand exposure to marijuana smoke may cause brief detectable levels of THC in the blood or urine, it is unlikely to result in a significant enough concentration to cause intoxication or a prolonged presence in the body.
Can Secondhand Marijuana Smoke Make You Fail a Drug Test?
Concerned about failing a drug test because of secondhand marijuana smoke? Several factors come into play: environment, duration of exposure, and the sensitivity of the drug test. For someone who doesn't smoke to fail a drug test due to secondhand smoke, they would need to be exposed to a high concentration of smoke in an unventilated space for a prolonged period.
In real-world scenarios, the concentrations of THC absorbed through passive exposure are usually well below the detection limits of standard drug tests. So, while it's not entirely impossible, it's unlikely under normal circumstances.
What Are The Adverse Effects of Secondhand Marijuana Smoke?
According to the American Lung Association, regular marijuana smoking can damage your lungs and weaken your immune system. A 2016 study found that even one minute of secondhand marijuana smoke can negatively affect your vascular endothelial function.
While more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects, reducing exposure through ventilation and avoidance of enclosed spaces where smoking occurs is recommended to mitigate potential health risks.
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