Oxycodone taken orally usually starts working within 20 to 40 minutes, with the peak effects occurring around 1 to 2 hours after ingestion. Standard oxycodone typically takes 30 to 60 minutes to start working, and its effects last about 4 to 6 hours. Extended-release or controlled-release oxycodone takes longer to reach peak concentration, around 3 to 4 hours, and the pain relief can last up to 12 hours or more. The onset is faster if oxycodone is snorted, with effects felt within 15 minutes.
Summary of oxycodone onset times and duration:
- Immediate-release oxycodone: onset in 20-40 minutes, peak at 1-2 hours, duration 4-6 hours.
- Extended-release oxycodone: onset slower, peak at around 3-4 hours, duration 12 hours.
- Snorted oxycodone: onset within 15 minutes.
This timing applies mainly to oral administration, the most common method for pain management.
