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Oxycodone Concentration in Plasma (24-Hour Urine or Plasma Screening/Confirmation)

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

This test measures the presence of oxycodone, a powerful opioid pain medication, in your urine or blood over a specified period. It helps assess recent drug use, adherence to treatment, or potential misuse.

Quick summary

["Detects recent opioid exposure to guide medical decisions or monitor compliance."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73222-2
Short code
oxyCODONE ind plt IgG SerPl Ql FC
Synonyms
oxyCODONE ind plt IgG 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 being evaluated for pain management, suspected opioid misuse, or to confirm whether you’ve taken prescribed medications as directed. It can also be part of a broader drug screening process, such as pre-employment checks or legal investigations.

How the Test Works

The test uses a specialized laboratory method to identify and measure oxycodone in your body fluids. Urine samples are often collected over a 24-hour period, while blood/plasma samples capture recent exposure. The results help determine if the drug was present at detectable levels.

Sample Collection and Preparation

For urine testing, you’ll typically provide a 24-hour urine sample collected in a sterile container. For blood/plasma testing, a small blood draw is needed. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

What to Expect During the Test

Urine collection may require multiple voids over 24 hours, while blood draws are quick and done in a clinic or lab setting. No special preparation is usually needed, but avoid drinking alcohol or certain medications that could interfere with results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Oxycodone Urine/Plasma Drug Screening

Frequently asked questions

Positive results may indicate recent opioid use, whether prescribed or illicit, and could influence treatment plans, such as adjusting pain management or addressing substance use concerns. Negative results suggest no detectable drug exposure during the test window.
This test is not diagnostic for addiction or dependence but serves as a screening tool. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider to understand their implications for your care.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means oxycodone was detected in your sample, which could mean you took the medication recently or used other opioids. Your provider will review the result in the context of your medical history and symptoms to guide next steps, such as adjusting pain treatment or exploring further evaluation for substance use.
Can false positives or negatives occur?
Yes, false positives can happen if other opioids or certain medications interfere with the test, or if you’ve recently consumed alcohol. False negatives are less common but may occur if the drug was metabolized too quickly or if the sample wasn’t collected properly. Always confirm results with your healthcare provider.
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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