How Long Does OxyContin Stay In Your System?

Many people take OxyContin to treat moderate to severe pain. In addition, some people abuse the drug (take it in a manner not prescribed) to feel euphoric or “high.” 

As with all painkillers, OxyContin only stays in your system for a certain amount of time.

OxyContin Detection Times

When you take OxyContin, your liver metabolizes it and produces byproducts known as metabolites. These substances include noroxycodone, oxymorphone, and noroxymorphone. The drug and its metabolites are then excreted through your kidneys. 

Half-Life Of Oxycodone

OxyContin has a half-life of about 4.5 hours. Half-life is the length of time it takes for half of a drug and its metabolites to exit a person’s system. 

Drug Testing

Even after OxyContin leaves your system, it may still be detected on drug tests.

In general, the drug can be detected:

• on a blood test for up to 24 hours after your last dose
• on a urine test for up to three days after your last dose
• on a saliva test for up to 48 hours after your last dose
• on a hair follicle test for up to 90 days after your last dose 

What Factors Impact OxyContin Detection Times?

The exact amount of time OxyContin can be detected for depends on personal factors such as:

• the amount of OxyContin you used
• how frequently you’ve been using OxyContin 
• your age
• your body mass index
• your metabolism rate
• your activity level
• your hydration level
• the health of your liver, since your liver metabolizes OxyContin 
• the concentration and pH levels of your urine

OxyContin Side Effects

Like all pain medications and prescription opioid drugs, OxyContin may cause side effects. The most common side effects of OxyContin include:

• sleepiness
• headache
• constipation
• changes in mood
• dry mouth
• stomach pain

OxyContin Abuse & Addiction

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies OxyContin as a Schedule II controlled substance. This means it has a high potential for abuse and addiction.

Also known as substance use disorder, addiction is a serious disease that can cause physical dependence, which means you may experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop drug use.

OxyContin Addiction Treatment Options

Recovering from an addiction to OxyContin isn’t easy. Luckily, drug abuse treatment centers offer a variety of inpatient and outpatient services to help people recover as safely and quickly as possible. 

Medical Detox

If you struggle with drug addiction, you’ll most likely begin your recovery journey with medical detox. 

During detox, a team of medical professionals will slowly lower your dosage of Oxyconton until you’re no longer taking the medication at all.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

In MAT, your health care providers can speed up your recovery by prescribing medications that treat opioid addictions. These medications, which include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone, can decrease cravings and relieve withdrawal symptoms.

MAT combines medications with other recovery services such as behavioral therapy, peer support groups, and wellness activities like yoga, exercise, and meditation.

If you or a loved one struggles with OxyContin addiction, please reach out to an Ark Behavioral Health specialist to learn more about our treatment options.