Oxycodone Substance Concentration in Serum/Plasma
This test measures the amount of oxycodone, a prescription pain medication, in your blood. It helps doctors assess your current drug level and monitor your response to treatment.
["This test helps track how much oxycodone is in your blood, which is important for managing pain safely and avoiding overdose."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13576-4
- Short code
- oxyCODONE SerPl Ql
- Synonyms
- oxyCODONE SerPl 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 you’re taking oxycodone regularly, experiencing side effects, or if you’re suspected of drug misuse or overdose. It helps ensure safe dosing and prevents complications like respiratory depression or addiction.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in your arm. If you’re on a long-term opioid regimen, your provider may schedule this test periodically to monitor levels.
What the Results Mean
Results show the concentration of oxycodone in your blood. Higher levels may indicate overdose risk, while lower levels could suggest inadequate pain control. Your provider will interpret results based on your medical history and current needs.
Common Reasons for Testing
Doctors may test for oxycodone to confirm overdose, evaluate pain management effectiveness, check for drug interactions, or screen for misuse (e.g., in addiction treatment). It’s also used in legal cases or workplace drug testing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Oxycodone is a potent opioid that can cause serious side effects, including drowsiness, slowed breathing, or addiction. High levels may lead to coma or death. Regular monitoring helps balance pain relief with safety. Always follow your provider’s instructions for dosing and avoid mixing with other central nervous system depressants.
Short name
Oxycodone Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What if my results are outside the expected range?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
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