The half-life of narcotic painkillers, also known as opioids, can vary depending on the specific drug. Opioids are a class of potent pain-relieving medications that act on the opioid receptors in the brain and body.
Here are some examples of commonly prescribed narcotic painkillers and their approximate half-lives:
Morphine: The half-life of morphine is around 2 to 4 hours.
Codeine: The half-life of codeine is about 2.5 to 3 hours.
Oxycodone: The half-life of immediate-release oxycodone is about 3 to 4.5 hours, and for extended-release formulations, it can range from 4.5 to 13.5 hours.
Hydrocodone: The half-life of hydrocodone is around 3.5 to 4 hours.
Fentanyl: The half-life of fentanyl can vary based on the formulation, ranging from about 1.6 to 7 hours.
It's important to note that the half-life of a drug is the time it takes for half of the drug to be eliminated from the body. The effects of opioids can last beyond their half-life, especially with prolonged use or if higher doses are taken. Additionally, some opioids and their active metabolites can accumulate with repeated dosing, leading to potential side effects and risks, including overdose.
Opioids should only be used as prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional, and patients should follow their doctor's instructions closely to minimize the risk of dependence, tolerance, and other adverse effects associated with these medications.