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Drug Screening: Oxycodone and Oxymorphone in Whole Blood

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

This test measures the presence of oxycodone and oxymorphone, two opioid pain relievers, in your blood. It helps determine recent drug use, assess overdose risk, or evaluate compliance with prescribed medication.

Quick summary

["This test helps doctors track opioid exposure and monitor safety, especially for pain management or suspected misuse."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
77732-6
Short code
oxyCODONE+oxyMORphone SerPlBld Ql Scn
Synonyms
oxyCODONE+oxyMORphone SerPlBld Ql Scn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
screen
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’ve been prescribed opioids, if you’re experiencing symptoms of opioid use (like drowsiness, confusion, or slowed breathing), or if there’s a concern about recent opioid exposure—such as after a suspected overdose or in cases of suspected misuse.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a small blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. The test is quick and typically done in a lab or clinic setting.

What the Results Mean

Results show whether these opioids are present in your blood. Positive results indicate recent opioid use, but they don’t confirm how long ago it occurred. High levels may signal misuse, overdose risk, or improper storage of prescribed medication.

Common Reasons for Testing

This test is often used in pain management to ensure proper dosing, in emergency settings to assess overdose, or in cases of suspected opioid diversion or misuse by patients or caregivers.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Oxycodone/Oxymorphone Blood Test

Frequently asked questions

How long after taking opioids will the test show results?
Oxycodone and oxymorphone can remain detectable in blood for several hours to a few days, depending on dose and individual metabolism. For example, short-acting opioids like oxycodone may clear faster than longer-acting forms.
What does a positive test mean for my health?
A positive test means these opioids were recently in your system. While this doesn’t always mean misuse, it can signal potential risks like overdose, especially if levels are high. Your doctor will discuss next steps, such as monitoring or adjusting treatment.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
Alcohol doesn’t interfere with this test, but it’s important to follow your doctor’s advice about other medications or substances that might affect your health while you’re being monitored for opioid use.
  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