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Drug Screening for Oxycodone in Hair

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

This test measures the presence of oxycodone, a prescription pain medication, in your hair over a long period (typically months). Hair drug testing can detect substance use that may not be detected by urine or blood tests.

Quick summary

["Hair testing helps track long-term exposure to oxycodone, even if you’ve stopped using it recently."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73753-6
Short code
oxyCODONE Hair Ql
Synonyms
oxyCODONE Hair Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 they suspect chronic or long-term use of oxycodone, especially if other tests (like urine or blood) show inconsistent results. Hair testing can also be used in workplace drug screening or legal cases where long-term substance use is relevant.

What Does the Test Involve?

A small sample of your hair is collected, usually from the scalp near the roots. The hair is analyzed to detect traces of oxycodone and its metabolites. This method can detect use dating back months, depending on how much hair is tested.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to remove any hair products or styling tools that could interfere with the test. If you’re undergoing this test for a specific reason (like a job application or legal matter), follow any additional instructions your provider gives you.

What Are the Results Meaning?

A positive result means oxycodone or its metabolites were found in your hair. The presence of oxycodone doesn’t necessarily mean you’re currently using it—it just indicates past exposure. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you and explain what they mean for your situation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: How This Test Helps Healthcare Providers

Short name

Oxycodone Hair Test

Frequently asked questions

How long can oxycodone be detected in hair?
Oxycodone can be detected in hair for several months, depending on the length of the hair sample analyzed. For example, a 3-inch sample may cover about 3 months of growth, while a longer sample can extend detection further. This makes hair testing useful for identifying long-term use patterns.
What does a positive hair test for oxycodone mean?
A positive hair test confirms past exposure to oxycodone, but it doesn’t indicate whether you’re currently using it. It could mean you’ve used the medication in the past, even if you’ve stopped. Your healthcare provider will work with you to interpret the results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
Can hair testing be used to monitor ongoing treatment?
Hair testing is less commonly used for monitoring ongoing treatment than urine or blood tests because it doesn’t show recent use. If you’re prescribed oxycodone for pain management, urine drug screens are typically preferred for regular follow-up to track current medication levels and potential misuse.
  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