Drug Information · Detection Times

How Long Does Heroin Stay in Your System?

Heroin itself clears from the blood very rapidly — within 6 hours. However, heroin metabolises into morphine, which is detectable in urine for 2–4 days after use (up to 7 days for heavy users). Hair follicle tests can detect heroin use for up to 90 days. Heroin is typically detectable by standard UK drug tests for 2–3 days after a single use.

⚠️ If you or someone you know has used heroin and is unresponsive — call 999 immediately. Administer Naloxone (Narcan) if available.

Heroin detection windows by test type

Test type
Detection window
Notes
💧Urine
2–4 days (heavy users: up to 7 days)
Detects morphine metabolites, not heroin itself
🩸Blood
6 hours (morphine: up to 12 hours)
Heroin is converted to morphine almost immediately
🦷Saliva
24–36 hours
Used in roadside and workplace testing
💇Hair
Up to 90 days
Detects 6-monoacetylmorphine (unique heroin marker)

Estimates only. Individual results vary based on metabolism, body weight, hydration, and frequency of use.

Detection times for other substances

Frequently asked questions

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How Long Does Heroin Stay in Your System? | Detection Times UK | SoberNation