Hydrocodone Concentration in Serum/Plasma (Quantitative Drug Screening)
This test measures the amount of hydrocodone, a pain medication, in your blood. It helps determine your current drug level and may be used for monitoring adherence to treatment or assessing toxicity.
["This test helps doctors track how much of your prescribed pain medication is in your system."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73344-4
- Short code
- HYDROcodone+CHL ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- HYDROcodone+CHL ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- CPT
- 82784
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking hydrocodone for pain relief, if you’re experiencing side effects, or if you have concerns about drug levels. It can also be used to verify compliance with treatment plans or to monitor for potential drug interactions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn early in the morning, but this is not always required. Bring a list of all medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to your appointment.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The process is quick and typically causes only a minor pinch. You may feel a brief sensation of warmth or pressure, but most people tolerate it well.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a reference range that varies by lab and individual factors like metabolism. High levels may indicate recent use, while very low levels could suggest poor absorption or recent dose adjustments. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Hydrocodone levels help assess pain management effectiveness, detect overdose risks, or identify issues like drug resistance. Abnormally high levels may require dose adjustments or further evaluation for misuse. Low levels might prompt questions about medication adherence or absorption problems.
Short name
Hydrocodone Level
Frequently asked questions
Will this test show if I’ve been using hydrocodone illegally?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
How long will it take to get my results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy