How Long Does Oxycodone Stay in Your System?

12/03/2025

7 minute read

Key Takeaways:

Detection windows vary by test type — Oxycodone can typically be detected in urine 1–4 days after last use, in blood up to 24 hours, in saliva 1–2 days, and in hair for up to 90 days.
Elimination depends on more than just half-life — Although oxycodone’s half-life is roughly 3–5 hours (or 4.5–6.5 hours for extended-release forms), metabolites linger and influence how long the drug shows up on tests.
Multiple factors affect how long it stays in your system — Detection time depends on metabolism, dosage and frequency of use, body composition, organ health (liver/kidneys), age, and other individual variables.
Withdrawal and detox can be difficult — professional care is safest — Stopping oxycodone use may trigger withdrawal (anxiety, restlessness, nausea, muscle pain, etc.), and a medically supervised detox or addiction treatment program is strongly advised to manage risks safely.

Question:

How long does Oxycodone stay in your system?

Answer:

While the euphoric and pain-relieving effects of oxycodone usually fade within hours, the drug’s metabolites can remain detectable for days — or even months with certain tests. Urine tests, the most common method, typically register oxycodone up to 1–4 days after last use; blood tests show use for about 24 hours; saliva for up to 1–2 days; and hair analyses can reveal drug presence up to 90 days later. Total length in the body depends not only on the drug’s half-life (about 3–5 hours for immediate-release, slightly longer for extended-release) but on a range of individual factors including metabolism, body fat, dosage, frequency of use, and liver or kidney health.

What Is Oxycodone and How Does It Compare to Other Prescription Opioids?

Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic opioid used to treat moderate to severe pain. Because it binds to mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system, it not only reduces pain but can also create feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and emotional numbness. These effects make it particularly addictive.

Taking opioids, whether as prescribed or in higher doses, increases the risk of developing dependence and opioid addiction. Opioid addiction is a form of drug addiction that can result from the compulsive use of oxycodone, leading to harmful health consequences.

People who use oxycodone long-term may experience:

Tolerance (needing more for the same effect)
Dependence (withdrawal without it)
Addiction (compulsive use despite harm)

Risk factors for developing opioid use disorder include personal or family history of substance abuse, co-occurring mental illness such as depression, and environmental influences.

If you or someone you love is struggling with oxycodone misuse, you’re not alone—and help is available. Opioid abuse, including taking oxycodone in ways not prescribed, can increase the risk of overdose and other serious consequences. Most addiction treatment centers offer compassionate, evidence-based care for opioid addiction, following guidelines from reputable authorities such as the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

How Long Does Oxycodone Stay in Your System?

While oxycodone’s effects typically last 4–12 hours, its metabolites remain in the body long after the “high” has worn off. Oxycodone is one of several opioid drugs that may be detected in drug tests. Detection depends heavily on the type of test.

People are often tested for prescribed opioids, especially in employment and healthcare settings, to monitor for misuse and ensure safe prescribing practices.

Oxycodone Detection Times and Withdrawal Symptoms

Test Type	Detection Window	Best For
Urine	1–4 days	Most common testing method
Blood	Up to 24 hours	Identifying recent use
Saliva	1–2 days	Quick workplace or roadside tests
Hair	Up to 90 days	Long-term use patterns

Does Oxycodone Show Up on a Standard Drug Test?

Some basic opioid panels test for morphine-based opioids only. Standard panels may detect other opioids, but specific tests are needed for oxycodone. Oxycodone often requires a specific opioid test panel, so results may depend on the type of screening used.

Oxycodone Half-Life and Use in Severe Pain

Oxycodone’s half-life varies depending on the formulation:

Immediate-release (IR): 3–5 hours
Extended-release (ER/OxyContin): 4.5–6.5 hours

It typically takes five half-lives for a drug to fully clear the bloodstream. However, drug tests detect metabolites, which remain longer.

Factors That Affect How Long Oxycodone Stays in Your Body and Risk of Opioid Use Disorder

Every person processes oxycodone differently. Factors that influence detection include genetic, psychological, and behavioral risk factors, as well as certain health conditions. These risk factors may increase the risk of prolonged oxycodone detection or adverse effects. Factors that influence detection include:

1. Frequency and Duration of Use

Occasional use clears faster than chronic use, which causes accumulation in tissues.

2. Dosage

Higher or more frequent doses stay detectable longer.

3. Metabolic Rate

People with faster metabolisms process oxycodone more quickly.

4. Liver and Kidney Function

Impaired liver or kidney function slows drug clearance.

5. Body Fat Percentage

Oxycodone is fat-soluble and can accumulate in fatty tissues.

6. Age and Health Conditions

Chronic illnesses or advanced age slow elimination. Mental disorders may also influence how the body processes oxycodone.

7. Hydration Levels

Dehydration concentrates metabolites and may prolong detection.

How Long Does Oxycodone Stay in Urine?

Urine tests are the most common for employment, healthcare, and legal screenings. These tests are used to detect drug use, including both prescription medications and illicit drugs, to ensure safety and compliance. Oxycodone is typically detectable in urine:

→ 1 to 4 days after last use

Heavy, chronic use may extend this to 5–7 days.

If you’re concerned about a drug screen because your use has gotten out of control, it may be a sign that you need help. Addiction treatment centers can guide you through detox, recovery, and long-term support.

How Long Does Oxycodone Stay in Blood?

Blood tests detect oxycodone for a much shorter period: they are often used in cases of suspected overdose to quickly assess opioid overdose risk and guide emergency medical intervention.

→ Up to 24 hours

Hospitals may use blood tests to identify immediate impairment or overdose risk.

How Long Does Oxycodone Stay in Saliva?

Oxycodone can be detected in saliva:

→ 1 to 2 days after the last dose

Saliva tests are easy, fast, and increasingly popular in workplaces.

How Long Does Oxycodone Stay in Hair?

Hair follicle tests have the longest detection window:

→ Up to 90 days

These tests don’t show current impairment, but they reveal long-term use patterns.

Can You Get Oxycodone Out of Your System Faster?

Many people search for ways to “flush oxycodone” from their bodies, but unfortunately:

You cannot reliably speed up the elimination of oxycodone.

Detox kits, supplements, extreme hydration, or home remedies do not work. The only safe and effective way to clear oxycodone is for your body to metabolize it naturally.

If you’re trying to stop using oxycodone in New Jersey and experiencing withdrawal symptoms, this is an important moment to reach out for help.

Oxycodone Withdrawal Symptoms

Stopping oxycodone suddenly—or reducing your dose after regular use—can trigger withdrawal. Symptoms often include:

Anxiety or restlessness
Muscle or bone pain
Insomnia
Chills and sweating
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Runny nose and watery eyes
Strong cravings
Mood swings or depression

Withdrawal typically begins 8–24 hours after the last dose and peaks within 72 hours.

Trying to detox alone can be uncomfortable and, for some, dangerous. A medical detox and treatment program for opioids can provide medications and supervision to keep you safe and comfortable.

Risks and Consequences of Oxycodone Use

While oxycodone is often prescribed to manage severe pain—whether from surgery, injury, or chronic conditions—its use comes with significant risks that extend far beyond pain relief. As a potent opioid, oxycodone can quickly lead to physical dependence, even when taken as directed. Over time, individuals may find themselves needing higher doses to achieve the same level of pain control, increasing the risk of drug abuse and opioid use disorder.

Beyond the risk of addiction, long-term opioid use can actually worsen chronic pain over time, making it harder to manage symptoms without medication. It can also contribute to co-occurring mental health issues such as depression or anxiety, further complicating recovery. For these reasons, it’s crucial to use oxycodone only as prescribed and to seek help if you notice signs of opioid misuse or dependence. Comprehensive treatment programs, like those offered at South Coast Behavioral Health, address both the physical and psychological aspects of opioid use, helping individuals reclaim their health and well-being.

When Should You Seek Help for Oxycodone Use?

You may benefit from professional addiction treatment if:

You’re using more oxycodone than prescribed
You take it to feel “normal”
You’ve tried to quit but couldn’t
You’re worried about drug tests
Withdrawal symptoms feel overwhelming
Your use is affecting relationships, work, or health
You feel ashamed, guilty, or stuck

Opioid addiction is not a personal failure—it’s a chronic health condition that responds to treatments like behavioral therapy. Getting help soon is the best way to prevent drug overdoses from taking opioids.

Treatment Options for Oxycodone Addiction

Comprehensive care typically includes:

1. Medical Detox

Helps manage withdrawal symptoms safely.

2. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Medications like:

Buprenorphine/Suboxone
Methadone
Naltrexone/Vivitrol

These reduce cravings and prevent relapse.

3. Inpatient Rehab

24/7 care for people needing structure, stabilization, and therapy.

4. Outpatient Treatment Programs

Flexible options such as IOP or PHP for people balancing work, school, or family.

5. Individual and Group Therapy

Addresses trauma, triggers, mental health conditions, and coping skills.

6. Ongoing Aftercare

Support groups, counseling, relapse prevention planning.

Get Help for Opioid Abuse Today

If you’re taking oxycodone, struggling with the effects of oxycodone, or worried about the risk of overdose, now is the time to reach out for help. Opiate and opioid addiction can quickly lead to physical dependence, especially when prescribed oxycodone turns into ongoing use. The longer you wait, the more it increases the risk of severe withdrawal, complications, and relapse.

Our addiction treatment center offers a full continuum of levels of care, including drug detox, detox centers, residential treatment, inpatient treatment, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient rehab. Whether you need support managing detox and withdrawal, or you’re ready to transition into outpatient programs like our intensive outpatient program, we’re here to help you through every step of your recovery journey. Verify your insurance for our opioid abuse treatment center in New Jersey today!

Professional Help for Those in Need

We treat drug addictions, alcohol addiction, and complex addiction and cooccurring mental health disorders using evidence-based care such as behavioral therapy, 12-step programs, and dual diagnosis treatment. Our licensed clinicians understand how oxycodone depends on the brain’s opioid receptors, and they tailor each rehab program to your unique needs.

When you reach out, the team at our opioid rehab center in New Jersey will guide you through the admissions process, help you verify your insurance (or verify insurance options), and explain what to expect in rehab, the detox process, and the cost of rehab. You’ll also have the chance to meet our team—a group of compassionate professionals dedicated to your long-term addiction recovery.Opioid abuse doesn’t have to control your future. Call today to start your recovery journey with a team that truly cares.