Skip to content

Oxycodone concentration in urine (24-hour collection)

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

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

Quick summary

["This test helps track opioid exposure or adherence to prescribed medication."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
109602-3
Short code
oxyCODONE Msmt Mec
Synonyms
oxyCODONE Msmt Mec
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 you’re being monitored for opioid use, managing chronic pain, recovering from opioid dependence, or experiencing suspected misuse. It can also be used in workplace drug testing or legal evaluations.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine produced in a 24-hour period in a special container. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results. Avoid drinking excessive water, as it may dilute the sample.

What Happens During the Test?

The collected urine sample is sent to a lab for analysis using a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method to detect and measure oxycodone levels precisely.

What Are the Results Mean?

Results are typically reported as a concentration of oxycodone in micrograms per milliliter (µg/mL) or milligrams per liter (mg/L). High levels may indicate recent opioid use, while low or absent levels suggest no recent exposure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Oxycodone (24h)

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get the results?
Results are usually available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on the lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you once they have the results.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means detectable levels of oxycodone were found in your urine. This could indicate recent use of the medication, either as prescribed or for non-medical purposes. Your provider will discuss the next steps based on the context of your care.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
Alcohol itself does not interfere with this test, but it may affect your overall health or pain management. Follow your provider’s advice regarding alcohol consumption before and after the test.
  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