Kava and Drug Tests: What to Know
The question of whether kava, a herbal supplement derived from the Piper methysticum plant, will be detected on a drug test is a common concern. The straightforward answer is that kava is not included in standard drug tests, which typically screen for illicit substances. However, the situation is more complex, as specialized testing methods can detect kava's active compounds and, in some cases, kava can trigger a false-positive result on an initial drug screen.
The Science of Kava and Its Active Compounds
Kava's psychoactive and relaxant effects are due to a group of compounds called kavalactones. There are approximately 18 identified kavalactones, but six major ones account for the majority of the plant's pharmacological activity: kavain, dihydrokavain, methysticin, dihydromethysticin, yangonin, and desmethoxyyangonin.
When kava is consumed, it is metabolized by the liver, primarily through the cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme system. The body breaks down the kavalactones into metabolites, which are then eliminated, largely through urine. The detection window for these metabolites can vary, which is an important factor in drug testing. Standard drug tests do not look for these specific kavalactone metabolites, but more advanced or specialized laboratory analysis can isolate and identify them.
Standard vs. Specialized Drug Tests
The likelihood of kava detection depends almost entirely on the type of test being administered. Most employment or legal drug screenings use a standard immunoassay panel, which looks for common classes of illicit substances.
Standard Drug Test Panels
- Standard Immunoassay Tests: These are the most common drug tests, typically for workplace screening. They are fast, cost-effective, and designed to detect specific molecules found in substances like marijuana (THC), opioids, amphetamines, and cocaine. Because kavalactones are chemically different from these compounds, standard tests will not directly show kava in your system.
- Cross-Reactivity and False Positives: While kavalactones do not trigger a positive for most drug classes, a notable exception exists. A study published in the Journal of Analytical Toxicology reported that kavain, one of the most abundant kavalactones, was found to create false-positive results for amphetamines in immunoassay tests. If this occurs, a confirmatory test, such as Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), would be necessary to differentiate between kavain and actual amphetamines.
Specialized Laboratory Testing
- Advanced Lab Tests: When required, advanced laboratory methods like LC-MS/MS (Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry) can specifically detect kavalactone metabolites in blood or urine. These tests are not standard practice for most screenings but could be used in specific cases, such as in clinical or forensic toxicology, or for certain types of driving under the influence (DUI) charges.
Detection Windows for Kava
The duration that kavalactones and their metabolites remain detectable varies by test type and individual factors. Research indicates that kava clears from the body relatively quickly compared to many other substances.
- Blood Test: Kavalactones are rapidly absorbed and metabolized by the liver. They are likely only detectable in blood tests for a few hours after ingestion.
- Urine Test: Kava metabolites can be detected in urine for a longer period, potentially up to several days, depending on factors like dosage and frequency of use. A primary metabolite, conjugated 4'-OH-kavain, has been found for up to 48 hours after consumption.
Factors Influencing Kava Detection
Several factors affect how long kava remains detectable in your system. This variability is one reason why predicting detection windows is difficult.
- Dosage and Frequency of Use: Individuals who consume high doses or use kava frequently will have higher concentrations of kavalactones and metabolites in their system, increasing the detection window.
- Individual Metabolism: An individual's metabolic rate, body weight, age, and genetics play a significant role in how quickly the body processes and eliminates kavalactones.
- Hydration: Being well-hydrated can help flush substances from your system more quickly, though this is not a reliable method to avoid detection on advanced tests.
Comparison of Drug Testing Methods
| Test Type | Standard Purpose | Kava Detection | Risk of False Positive for Kava Use | Detection Window | Reliability | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Immunoassay (Standard Urine) | Standard employment & probation screening | No (Generally) | High (For amphetamines) | N/A | Variable | If positive, requires confirmatory GC-MS test. |
| GC-MS (Confirmatory) | Confirming positive immunoassay results | No (Unless specifically screened for) | None (Accurate confirmation) | N/A | High | Differentiates kavalactones from actual amphetamines. |
| Advanced Lab Test (LC-MS/MS) | Specialized toxicological & forensic analysis | Yes (Specifically screens for kavalactones) | None | Hours to Several Days | High | Not used in typical employment screenings. |
| Blood Test | Acute impairment or legal DUI cases | Yes (Specifically screens for kavalactones) | None | Up to a few hours | High | Invasive, typically reserved for specific situations. |
Kava's Legal Status and Workplace Policies
In the United States, kava is generally classified as a dietary supplement and is not a controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings about the potential for severe liver injury associated with kava, leading to various state and local restrictions.
Your workplace policy on kava is the most significant factor to consider. Although a standard test is unlikely to detect kava, an employer or legal body may have specific policies or may request more advanced testing if there's reason to do so. Some industries, particularly those involving heavy machinery operation or public safety, may have stricter rules regarding substances that can cause sedation. The FAA, for example, has issued bulletins regarding kava and flying. If your profession requires drug testing, it is prudent to understand your employer's specific policies.
Conclusion
Kava is not typically included in standard drug test panels and will not be detected by most common screenings. The most significant risk for kava users facing drug testing is a false-positive result for amphetamines on initial immunoassay tests. If this occurs, a more advanced confirmatory test would be necessary to prove that kava was the cause, which is a process that typically clears the user. Specialized laboratory tests can detect kavalactone metabolites for a short time after consumption, but these are not common for routine screening. Ultimately, while standard tests are not an issue, it's essential to be aware of the potential for false positives and to understand your workplace's specific policies before using kava.
A Final Word of Caution
While kava may not appear on a drug test, it is a psychoactive substance and can cause impairment. Driving or operating heavy machinery after consuming kava is not recommended. Always exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before using kava, especially if you are taking other medications or have a pre-existing medical condition. For more information on health and safety related to kava, you can consult sources like the National Institutes of Health.
