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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 drug use, compliance with treatment, or exposure to the medication.

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
19642-8
Short code
oxyCODONE Ur Ql Scn
Synonyms
oxyCODONE Ur Ql Scn
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
screen
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Doctors may order this test to monitor patients taking oxycodone for pain management, detect misuse, or verify compliance with treatment plans. It can also be used in medical or legal contexts to assess recent opioid exposure.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll collect a 24-hour urine sample starting after your first morning pee until the same time the next day. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results. Avoid drinking excessive water or altering your diet, as these can affect results.

Sample Collection Process

Your sample is collected in a sealed container. The lab will analyze the urine for traces of oxycodone using sensitive detection methods. Results are typically reported as a concentration value (e.g., micrograms per liter).

What the Results Mean

Results indicate the total amount of oxycodone excreted in your urine over 24 hours. Higher levels may suggest recent opioid use, non-compliance with prescribed doses, or potential misuse. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Oxycodone (24h)

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated levels in this test?
Elevated levels may be due to recent opioid use (prescribed or illicit), non-compliance with medication, or exposure to oxycodone in the environment. Your doctor may also check for other opioids or related substances.
Can diet or hydration affect this test?
While diet and hydration don’t directly alter oxycodone levels, excessive fluid intake may dilute urine concentration. Follow your doctor’s guidelines to avoid unnecessary variations in results.
How long do results take to return?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will contact you with the final report.
  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