Author : Dr Kate Garside
Does CBD show up on a 10-panel drug screen?
CBD (cannabidiol) does not usually show up on a standard 10-panel drug screen in the UK, because these tests are designed to detect controlled substances, such as:
- Cannabis (specifically THC, the psychoactive component)
- Cocaine
- Amphetamine
- Methamphetamine
- Ecstasy
- Opiates, e.g. Morphine and Heroin
- Methadone
- Buprenorphine
- Benzodiazepines
- Ketamine
UK drug testing panels focus on substances that are controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. CBD is not a controlled substance if it meets legal standards (e.g. containing less than 1mg of THC per product and being derived from approved hemp strains).
However, there's a catch:
Many over-the-counter CBD products in the UK—especially full-spectrum oils—can contain trace levels of THC. If used frequently, even these trace amounts might accumulate a, and these may cause a positive result for cannabis on a drug test, even though the person hasn't used illegal marijuana.
To minimise the risk of a false positive on a drug screen:
- Use CBD isolate products that contain 0.0% THC.
- Buy from reputable UK brands that provide third-party lab reports showing THC content.
- Avoid “full-spectrum” or untested CBD oils unless you are certain of their legal and chemical composition.
- Buy an ultra sensitive THC urine drug test kit and test yourself to be sure that the CBD does not contain THC.
How to avoid testing positive in the UK:
- Choose CBD isolate products that are advertised as THC-free.
- Look for UK-compliant third-party lab reports showing 0.0% THC.
- Stick to reputable UK brands that follow FSA and Home Office guidelines.
- Be cautious of imported or unregulated products, which may contain more THC than allowed under UK law.
If you test positive on a drug test after using CBD in the UK, here’s what you should do:
What to Do If You Test Positive After Using CBD in the UK
1. Stay calm and request a confirmation laboratory drug test
Most initial drug tests are screening tests, not definitive. You are entitled to request a confirmation lab drug test, which is more accurate and can identify the specific compound detected. If the THC level is very low, this test may help prove the result was caused by a legal CBD product. Some labs can also detect CBD if asked to test for it.
2. Provide evidence of CBD use
Show packaging, receipts, and most importantly, third-party lab reports (also called Certificates of Analysis) for the product you used. These should indicate the THC content and verify that the product meets UK legal standards (i.e. less than 1mg THC per container). Document how often and how much you’ve been using.
3. Explain the circumstances
Be honest with your employer, agency, or relevant authority. Explain you were using a legal, over-the-counter CBD product for wellbeing or medical support, not an illegal substance. Point out that you were not aware it could affect a drug test, and that CBD is legal in the UK.
4. Seek legal advice (If Needed)
If your job or reputation is at risk, consult an employment solicitor or your union rep. They can advise on how to handle a disciplinary hearing and whether the drug test result could be challenged.
5. Consider changing CBD products
Switch to CBD isolate or broad-spectrum products with zero THC if you wish to continue using CBD safely in the future. Avoid full-spectrum oils unless you’re certain they’re THC-free (which can be misleading on UK labels).