100% Confidential
Dr. Rostislav Ignatov, MD
Chief Medical Officer
Opioids, when introduced into the human body, undergo a complex process of metabolism. Metabolism refers to the chemical reactions that substances like opioids go through within the body. This process plays an integral role in determining how long opioids stay in your system.
First, opioids enter the bloodstream and are transported to the liver, where the bulk of their metabolism takes place. In the liver, enzymes break down opioids into smaller molecules known as metabolites. These metabolites can be either inactive or active, depending on the opioid involved.
The type of opioid, its formulation (short-acting or long-acting), and individual factors such as genetics and overall health can influence the rate and efficiency of opioid metabolism. Some opioids, like codeine, transform into morphine, which is responsible for the pain-relieving effects. This conversion varies from person to person, affecting the opioid’s duration in the body.
Metabolism ultimately dictates how long opioids can be detected in drug tests, affecting legal, medical, and employment-related situations. Proper comprehension of these metabolic processes is essential for the effective management of opioid usage and detoxification.
Opioids, potent pain relievers, can stay in your system for a while, which raises concerns about their impact and detoxification. Here’s what you need to know:
How long opioids stay in your system depends on the drug, your metabolism, and the type of test. Knowing these timelines is important for jobs, medical care, or legal issues.
Opioid detection varies by person and test type. Knowing this helps with informed decisions and seeking help if needed. Detection times vary based on metabolism, hydration, body fat, and how often the drug is used.
Opioid use disorder (OUD) refers to a problematic practice of opioid use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress. Those with OUD often have a higher likelihood of extended opioid detection.
Younger individuals typically metabolize opioids faster than older adults. As a result, opioids may stay in their system for a shorter period, potentially leading to shorter detection times. However, individual factors like body composition, health, and frequency of use still play a significant role.
Hydration is a critical factor in the body’s ability to eliminate substances, including opioids. When a person is well-hydrated, their kidneys are more efficient at filtering and excreting opioids.
Symptoms typically begin within the first 6–12 hours after the last opioid dose. These may include restlessness, anxiety, and muscle aches.
The most intense withdrawal symptoms, such as vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and intense cravings, are usually experienced during this period.
After the peak phase, withdrawal symptoms gradually subside, but some discomfort and cravings may persist for several days.
Some individuals experience a more prolonged withdrawal phase known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), which can include mood swings, insomnia, and cravings and may last for several weeks to months.
Some studies suggesting that women may clear opioids more slowly than men, leading to prolonged detection.
Symptoms typically begin within the first 6–12 hours after the last opioid dose. These may include restlessness, anxiety, and muscle aches.
The most intense withdrawal symptoms, such as vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and intense cravings, are usually experienced during this period.
After the peak phase, withdrawal symptoms gradually subside, but some discomfort and cravings may persist for several days.
Some individuals experience a more prolonged withdrawal phase known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), which can include mood swings, insomnia, and cravings and may last for several weeks to months.
Treatment for opioid addiction is a multi-faceted approach aimed at helping individuals overcome opioid dependency and regain control over their lives. The primary components of treatment include:
Get answers about your cost / coverage now.
Your information will be kept private
24/7 Support
No Commitment
100% Private
There’s no catch. Checking your insurance is simply a way to see what your plan covers — it doesn’t lock you into treatment, notify anyone, or cost you anything. You get answers upfront to decide what makes sense for you.
Protecting your privacy matters! No information or notifications are ever sent to your employer or family — whether you check your insurance online or call. Everything is handled through secure, encrypted systems that meet strict medical privacy laws. You stay in control of your information!
Luckily, most insurance policies cover treatment here. Depending on the healthcare you’ve already had this year, costs could even be zero. Instead of worrying, let’s just find out what your plan covers.
Most likely. We work with major providers like Cigna, Aetna, and United Healthcare, public insurances like Tricare and tribal plans, and even smaller plans like Surest Bind and Harvard Pilgrim. The quickest way to know for sure is to check online or call. It’s a quick, private way to understand what is covered upfront.
Verifying your insurance isn’t a commitment to start treatment — it’s simply a way to see what your options are. Knowing your coverage ahead of time helps you make more informed, confident decisions. It also helps flag a spot, so you’re able to get right in if you ever do decide you’re ready.
You need your policy number to check your specific policy online. If you want general information, just call. You likely have questions beyond insurance anyway. Reaching out now helps you figure out the right fit if or when you’re ready. You don’t have to put off the call until you’re in crisis. Calling is not scary, I promise!
