How Long Does Percocet® Stay in Your System?
Percocet® is a prescription opioid medication that combines oxycodone (an opioid pain medication) with acetaminophen (Tylenol®). It may be prescribed for moderate to severe pain, but it carries meaningful risk for tolerance, dependence, and misuse.
For many people, oxycodone from Percocet® may be detectable for about 1 to 4 days, depending on the test type and factors such as dose, liver function, metabolic rate, and frequency of use.
Safety note: A “detection window” is not the same as how long someone feels effects. Even after pain relief or sedation fades, oxycodone and metabolites can remain detectable.
For broader guidance and related substance resources, visit: Addiction & Substance Use.
When to Seek Emergency Help
Call 911 immediately if someone who has taken Percocet® (or any opioid) has slow or stopped breathing, cannot be awakened, has blue/gray lips or fingertips, severe confusion, chest pain, or seizures. If you suspect an overdose, emergency care is critical.
Percocet® Detection Times by Test Type
The ranges below are commonly cited estimates for oxycodone:
| Test Type | Typical Detection Window |
|---|---|
| Urine | About 1 to 4 days |
| Blood | Up to about 24 hours |
| Saliva | About 1 to 2 days |
| Hair | Up to about 90 days (varies by test and hair growth) |
Frequent use, higher doses, and longer duration of use can extend detection. Hair testing generally reflects longer-term exposure patterns, while blood and saliva are more short-term.
Percocet® Half-Life
The elimination half-life of immediate-release oxycodone is commonly cited around 3.5 to 5.5 hours. Many medications take about 4 to 5 half-lives for most of a single dose to clear from the bloodstream, though drug testing may detect metabolites beyond that timeframe.
- Immediate-release oxycodone: shorter duration
- Extended-release oxycodone: longer duration (formulation dependent)
Acetaminophen typically clears faster than oxycodone and does not determine opioid test positivity.
Factors That Influence How Long Percocet® Stays in Your Body
- Age: older adults often metabolize opioids more slowly
- Liver health: oxycodone is metabolized primarily by the liver
- Kidney function
- Dosage and formulation
- Frequency of use: occasional vs. repeated/daily use
- Overall health and body composition
How Long Do the Effects of Percocet® Last?
Immediate-release Percocet® effects often last around 4 to 6 hours. Effects may include pain relief, drowsiness, slowed reaction time, and constipation.
High-risk combination: Combining Percocet® with alcohol, benzodiazepines (like Xanax®), or other sedatives significantly increases overdose risk and should be avoided unless explicitly directed and monitored by a medical professional.
Is Percocet® Addictive?
Yes. Because Percocet® contains oxycodone, it is a Schedule II controlled substance and carries a recognized risk of misuse and dependence. Even when taken as prescribed, some people develop tolerance and physical dependence.
Potential signs of misuse may include:
- Taking more than prescribed or taking doses more frequently
- Cravings for the medication
- Running out early
- Mood or personality changes
- Hiding use or withdrawing socially
- Doctor-shopping or pharmacy-hopping
Percocet® Withdrawal Symptoms
Stopping Percocet® suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms, especially after regular use. Symptoms may begin within 8 to 24 hours after the last dose (short-acting opioids), but timing and intensity vary.
- Anxiety
- Muscle aches
- Chills or sweating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Restlessness
- Insomnia
- Runny nose or watery eyes
If withdrawal risk is a concern, see: Drug Withdrawal. Do not attempt withdrawal alone if you have heavy/long-term use, medical concerns, or polysubstance use.
Related Educational Resources
- How Long Does Oxycodone Stay in Your System?
- Codeine vs. Hydrocodone
- Hydrocodone Detection Guide
- 5 Types of Drug Addiction
Support for Percocet® Misuse or Dependence in Houston
If Percocet® use is creating problems—or you are worried about a loved one—support is available. Treatment can help with cravings, relapse prevention, psychiatric stabilization, and underlying drivers of opioid use.
At The Heights Treatment Center in Houston, levels of care may include:
- Individualized Intensive Program (IIP)
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
- Outpatient Program (OP)
If you want to talk through options, contact us for a confidential conversation. Learn more about our Houston location: Houston addiction and mental health rehab.
