Table of Contents
Introduction
Percocet is a powerful narcotic pain reliever that consists of two different drugs. Acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol, and oxycodone make up Percocet. Oxycodone is a highly addictive partially synthetic opioid pain killer. Percocet comes in tablet form and can be found in different strengths. If you have been prescribed Percocet or taken it in the past, you may be wondering, “How long does Percocet stay in your system?”
To answer that question properly, it helps to know a little bit about Percocet and how it functions. Percocet is classified as a controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and is only available by prescription. It is used to treat moderate to chronic pain and has a high potential for abuse. Its wide availability has made it a popularly abused opioid painkiller.
Here’s what you need to know.
What is Percocet?
Percocet is the brand name for a prescription pain killer, which is a combination of acetaminophen and oxycodone. The DEA classifies Percocet as a Schedule 2 controlled substance because of its high potential for abuse. This powerful opiate pain reliever is used to treat many different types of pain when other remedies are ineffective.
The pain-relieving properties of Percocet are typically felt about 30 minutes after ingestion. The effects peak in an hour or two and persist for 4 – 6 hours. Physicians usually start by prescribing a low dosage and gradually increase the strength until the pain is adequately controlled.
How long does Percocet stay in your system?
The length of time Percocet stays in your system depends on multiple variables. While it has a half-life of up to 3 hours, many components can affect how long the drug can be detected in your system. A user’s body weight, liver function, and health issues can all affect how long Percocet can be detected in the system. Even the amount of Percocet ingested and the length of time it’s been taken can affect how long it stays in the system.
Percocet can be detected in the urine for up to 3 days after the last ingestion. It can be detected in the blood for up to 18 hours and in the saliva for up to 2 days. A hair follicle test can detect Percocet for up to 90 days. When taken in high doses or for long periods, Percocet may be detected in the system in trace amounts for much longer.
According to recent studies, about 8 percent of the Percocet ingested passes into the breast milk and may affect nursing babies. It can be detected in breast milk for up to 2 -3 days. If you are nursing and have been prescribed Percocet, you should consult your physician before taking it.
Percocet is Addictive
Percocet is a powerful painkiller that is highly addictive. It can be detected in the system well after use, depending on the amount ingested and the length of time it is taken. If you have prescribe Percocet for pain, you should take it exactly as prescribed and only for a short time. If you’ve become addicted or physically dependent, you should seek medical intervention. Percocet withdrawals can harsh, and it is best to seek medical help for detoxification. Percocet is a powerful pain killer that should only taken when necessary under the direct supervision of a medical professional.
