Oxycodone (Drug Concentration) in Serum or Plasma
This test measures the amount of oxycodone, a prescription opioid pain medication, in your blood. It helps doctors assess your drug levels and monitor your response to treatment or potential drug interactions.
["This test helps ensure safe and effective use of oxycodone by checking how much of the drug is in your system."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 97323-0
- Short code
- oxyCODONE Free TissCo Ql Cfm
- Synonyms
- oxyCODONE Free TissCo Ql Cfm
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- confirm
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking oxycodone for pain management, if you’ve experienced side effects, or if you’re suspected of drug misuse or overdose. It can also be used to confirm compliance with prescribed doses or to evaluate how your body processes the medication.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test, depending on your doctor’s instructions. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as they may affect results. Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol before the blood draw if advised by your provider.
During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the process is quick. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis using a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method to detect oxycodone.
What the Results Mean
Results show the concentration of oxycodone in your blood. Higher levels may indicate recent use, improper dosing, or potential toxicity. Lower levels could suggest poor absorption, drug interactions, or non-compliance. 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.
Oxycodone levels are critical for managing pain, preventing overdose, and detecting misuse. Elevated levels may signal overdose risks, while persistently low levels could indicate inadequate pain control or drug resistance. Regular monitoring helps adjust treatment plans safely and effectively.
Short name
Oxycodone Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
What if I’m taking other medications?
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