Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) is a hydrogenated form of THC—meaning it’s structurally similar to delta-8 and delta-9 THC but slightly altered for stability. It’s often marketed as a “legal high,” sold in vape cartridges, edibles, and tinctures.
While many people assume it won’t show up on a drug test, HHC can still be detected, often triggering a false positive for THC on standard drug screenings. Even though most drug tests aren’t specifically looking for HHC, its metabolites may overlap with or mimic those of THC, putting users at risk of workplace or legal consequences.
Understanding how long HHC stays in your system depends on several factors, including dosage, frequency of use, metabolism, and test type.
| Test type | Detection window |
|---|---|
| Urine | Up to 15–30 days (heavy use) |
| Blood | Up to 24–48 hours |
| Saliva | Up to 24–72 hours |
| Hair | Up to 90 days |
- HHC can remain detectable in urine for up to 30 days and may trigger false positives for THC on standard drug tests.
- How long HHC stays in your system depends on dosage, frequency of use, metabolism, and body fat, with chronic users retaining it longer.
- Although often marketed as legal, HHC’s legal status is uncertain, and its metabolites may still lead to job loss or legal issues if detected.
Can HHC cause a positive result on a drug test?
Yes, HHC can cause a positive result on many types of drug tests, even if HHC itself isn’t being screened for. That’s because standard drug tests for marijuana detect THC metabolites, particularly THC-COOH, and HHC’s byproducts may be chemically similar enough to cross-react on immunoassays.
A study published in 2024 found that HHC’s major urinary metabolites can mimic those of THC, making it likely to trigger a false positive on immunoassay-based tests for marijuana use. [2]
How HHC is metabolized in the body
Once consumed, HHC is absorbed into the bloodstream and metabolized primarily by the liver, following a process similar to THC. Like other cannabinoids, it undergoes hepatic metabolism via the cytochrome P450 enzymes (particularly CYP3A4 and CYP2C9), forming metabolites that are eventually excreted through urine, feces, and sweat.
The half-life of HHC has not been precisely established in humans, but animal studies and human analogs to THC suggest it may range between 8 and 30 hours, depending on individual factors. A recent study published in 2024 found that HHC and its metabolites were detectable in urine up to 10 days after use, especially for frequent users. [1]
In general, the excretion timeline is the following:
- Occasional users: HHC may be eliminated within 3 to 7 days.
- Moderate to regular users: It may take 1 to 2 weeks to fully clear.
- Chronic or high-dose users: Metabolites may linger for up to 30 days or more, particularly in body fat.
Since HHC is lipophilic (fat-soluble) in frequent users, it can accumulate in fat tissues, allowing it to accumulate and be released slowly over time. Complete elimination from the body may take several days to weeks, depending on body composition, metabolism, and usage patterns.
Duration of HHC's effects
The intensity and length of HHC’s psychoactive effects depend on the dose, tolerance, method of consumption, and whether it’s taken with food or other substances.
Like THC, it binds to the CB1 receptors in the brain, producing euphoric, calming, or mildly hallucinogenic effects.
- Inhalation (vape or smoke): Onset in 5–15 minutes, peak at 30–60 minutes, effects last 2–4 hours
- Oral (edibles, tinctures): Onset in 30–90 minutes, peak at 2–3 hours, effects last 4–6+ hours
Drug test detection times
Detection times for HHC can vary depending on the type of test used, frequency of use, and individual factors like metabolism.
Urine tests
Urine tests look for THC-COOH metabolites. Although HHC is a distinct compound, it produces metabolites with similar structures, making urine the most likely test to return a false positive.
- Occasional users: May test negative within 3–7 days.
- Frequent users: Can test positive for up to 30+ days.
Blood tests
HHC is detectable in blood for up to 72 hours, though it usually clears within 24 hours in casual users. Blood tests are less common for workplace screenings but may be used in accidents or legal investigations.
Saliva tests
Saliva tests detect recent use and are more likely to pick up active cannabinoids than metabolites. Detection timing may vary based on the frequency of use and oral hygiene habits.
- Detectable for 1–3 days after use.
- Most sensitive in the first 24 hours.
Hair tests
Hair tests can detect cannabinoid use for up to 90 days. Because metabolites deposit in hair follicles over time, even a single use of HHC could be captured weeks later, though this test is less commonly used.
Factors influencing HHC detection and duration
Several variables affect how long HHC stays in your system and how it impacts your body:
- How often it is used: Daily users may take longer to clear HHC from their system.
- Body fat percentage: HHC is fat-soluble, so it may linger longer in individuals with higher body fat.
- Metabolism: People who are active and have faster metabolisms may clear HHC more quickly.
- Hydration and diet: Staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy diet can influence excretion speed.
Occasional users may eliminate HHC within days, while chronic users might test positive for several weeks.
Steps to take if you get a positive result
Testing positive for HHC—even unintentionally—can lead to employment issues, legal consequences, or probation violations. Here's what you can do:
- Request a confirmation test: Ask for a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) test or LC-MS test, which can distinguish between THC and HHC metabolites.
- Save packaging: If you consumed a product labeled as HHC, preserve the label and receipt as proof of what you used.
- Contact your employer/HR: Explain your use and inquire if HHC is banned under their policy—even if it’s legally purchased.
- Speak to a lawyer: Especially important if you're facing legal consequences or court-mandated testing.
- Avoid further use: If you're subject to regular testing, it is always best to abstain from HHC entirely to avoid future complications.
Safety considerations and safely eliminating HHC
Although there are many “detox” kits on the market, they may contain unsafe additives and are often ineffective. To safely eliminate HHC from your system:
- Hydrate regularly to support kidney function
- Exercise to support metabolism
- Avoid further use if anticipating a drug test
- Eat a healthy diet rich in fiber to encourage bowel movements
Also, the long-term health effects of HHC are still being studied, and there may be unknown risks associated with chronic use. [3] As with any cannabinoid, use responsibly and be aware of local laws. Although HHC is generally considered milder than THC, it may still cause:
- Anxiety or paranoia
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness or dizziness
- Impaired coordination
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