A quick answer: Hydrocodone is generally detectable in urine for 1–4 days. Blood, saliva, and hair have different windows — and several personal factors change the timeline. Here is what the science says, and how to confirm a result definitively. (Also searched as: Vicodin, Norco, Lortab.)
Hydrocodone detection windows
Typical detection windows by test type:
| Urine | 1–4 days |
|---|---|
| Blood | up to 24 hours |
| Saliva | 12–36 hours |
| Hair | up to 90 days |
Detection windows are general estimates and vary by dose, frequency of use, individual metabolism, body composition, hydration, and the test’s cutoff level. They are not guarantees or medical advice. Hair testing generally reflects roughly the prior 90 days for all substances.
What affects how long Hydrocodone stays in your system
Like oxycodone, hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid better captured by an expanded panel than a basic opiate screen. In general, higher doses, more frequent use, slower metabolism, and higher cutoff sensitivity all lengthen how long a substance is detectable. There is no reliable way to "flush" a substance out faster than your body clears it.
Test for Hydrocodone
To confirm Hydrocodone definitively, use a lab-confirmed test. Order a private at-home drug test (a 14 panel panel covers Hydrocodone), or set up employer testing. Every LabX positive is confirmed by LC-MS/MS.
Order an at-home test → For employers