Percocet is a prescription pain medication used to treat moderate to severe pain. It is a combination of opioid painkillers and acetaminophen, the active ingredient found in Tylenol. Percocet is an extended-release formulation prescribed to millions in the United States. It is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) because of its high potential for abuse. Addiction to opioids like Percocet is said to be just as intense as an addiction to street drugs like Heroin.
There are many reasons people may need to answer the question, “How long does Percocet stay in your system?” Sometimes patients may be prescribed other medications, which could present a safety hazard when taken with Percocet. Drug rehab personnel should especially be able to answer the question, “How long does Percocet stay in your system?”
Knowing the answer to this question can help them determine if patients comply with their treatment program. Here’s what you need to know about how long Percocet stay in your system.
Processing Percocet
The generic form of Percocet is oxycodone, and each processes it differently. Furthermore, multiple factors can impact how the drug is processed in the body. Factors like a person’s weight, hydration level, and liver function help determine the speed at which Percocet is eliminated from the body. The dosage strength and amount ingested can also play an important role in the amount of time Percocet can be detected in someone’s system.
Compounds produced by the body’s processing of Percocet can remain in the body long after the drug itself. Its metabolites and other compounds can be identified in the body well after the drug itself has been eliminated. Long-term use of Percocet can often result in physical dependence, addiction, or liver damage. Individuals with a history of liver disease are typically discouraged from treatment with Percocet and other forms of oxycodone.
Detecting the Presence of Percocet
The time Percocet can be detected in the system depends on multiple factors. It can also be affected by elements such as body mass index, length of use, and the type of test being performed. Individuals should be able to answer the question, “How long does Percocet stay in your system?” before being prescribed the drug or working in a healthcare setting.
A urine test is typically the most common test performed to detect the presence of Percocet. Depending on the length of use, Percocet can be detected in the urine for up to 3 to 4 days after the last ingestion. A blood or saliva test can detect the presence of Percocet for 18 to 24 hours, respectively, but they are not as reliable as a urine screen. A hair follicle test can detect the presence of Percocet up to 90 days after last use, but it is not always cost-effective as hair follicle tests are pricey.
Exercise Caution Using Percocet
If you’re wondering, “How long does Percocet stay in your system?” the answer can range from 24 hours to 90 days, depending on multiple factors and the type of test performed. Percocet is a strong narcotic painkiller that should only be taken as directed for a short period. You can quickly develop a psychological and physical dependence on the drug, requiring professional help to stop. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction to Percocet, get help from a medical professional immediately. It’s also important to remember that Percocet metabolites and compounds can linger in the body long after the drug has been eliminated.
