Opioids

How long do opiates stay in your system?

Last updated:
June 11, 2025

The half-life for opiates can range from 1-9 hours, depending on how much you take and which type. For instance, the half-life of morphine is 1.5-6.5 hours, the half-life of codeine is 1-4 hours, and the half-life of hydrocodone is 3.5-9 hours The amount of time that opiates can be detected in your system relies on the type of test.

On this page
Related topics

Addiction Assessment

Book a FREE Confidential Assessment at Your Nearest Rehab Centre

White pharmaceutical pills and powder scattered on bright blue surface, representing opioid medications
opioids vs opiates

Rehabilitation from alcohol can be one of the most challenging addiction recovery journeys. Let us show you how to succeed.

Read more
Chart showing the number of drug misuse deaths related to opioids in England and Wales from 1993 to 2016.
Is the Opioid Epidemic Spreading to the UK?

Rehabilitation from alcohol can be one of the most challenging addiction recovery journeys. Let us show you how to succeed.

Read more
Close-up image of drug paraphernalia including a syringe, spoon, and an outstretched arm, illustrating the harsh reality of heroin addiction
Is Heroin an opiate?

Rehabilitation from alcohol can be one of the most challenging addiction recovery journeys. Let us show you how to succeed.

Read more
What is an opiate antagonist?

Rehabilitation from alcohol can be one of the most challenging addiction recovery journeys. Let us show you how to succeed.

Read more

Ready to start?
We're here for you