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Oxycodone concentration in urine (24-hour collection)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of oxycodone, a prescription pain medication, in your urine over a 24-hour period. It helps assess recent drug exposure, compliance with treatment, or potential misuse.

Quick summary

["This test helps track how much of the medication you’ve taken or if there may be unintended exposure."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
27293-0
Short code
oxyCODONE Free Stl-mCnt
Synonyms
oxyCODONE Free Stl-mCnt
Category
chemistry
Sample
stool
Container
Clean container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 g
Stability
Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking oxycodone for pain management, if you’re suspected of misuse, or if you’re undergoing monitoring for substance use. It can also be used in workplace or legal settings to check for drug presence.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine produced in a 24-hour period in a special container. Drink plenty of fluids to help your kidneys pass the medication. Avoid drinking alcohol or taking other medications that might affect urine results.

How the Test Is Done

Urine is collected in a sealed container over 24 hours. The sample is then sent to a lab for testing using a sensitive detection method to measure oxycodone levels.

What the Results Mean

Results show the total amount of oxycodone in your urine over the past day. Higher levels may indicate recent use, non-compliance with prescribed doses, or potential misuse. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

24-Hour Urine Oxycodone

Frequently asked questions

What does a high level of oxycodone in urine mean?
A high level may suggest recent oxycodone use, whether prescribed or not, and could indicate misuse, non-adherence to treatment, or exposure to the drug outside of medical supervision. Your provider will discuss this with you based on your clinical picture.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your provider will contact you once they’re ready for review.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
No, avoid alcohol and other medications that might affect urine results for the 24-hour period. Drink plenty of water to support urine flow, but avoid excessive fluid intake that could dilute the sample.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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