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Ethanol and Ethylglucuronide (EtG) in Serum/Plasma (Mass Concentration)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the presence of alcohol (ethanol) and its metabolite ethylglucuronide (EtG) in your blood or plasma. It helps determine recent alcohol use.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess alcohol consumption within days before testing."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
16632-2
Short code
Cocaethylene Ur Cfm-mCnc
Synonyms
Cocaethylene Ur Cfm-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
confirm
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have concerns about recent alcohol use, such as after a suspected alcohol-related incident, during treatment for alcohol dependence, or as part of a routine screening for substance use.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood draw, where a small amount of blood is taken from a vein in your arm. If testing urine or saliva, follow any specific instructions your provider gives you.

What the Test Results Mean

Ethanol levels detect recent alcohol ingestion (typically within hours). Ethylglucuronide (EtG) detects alcohol use up to 80 hours later, making it useful for detecting prolonged or binge drinking. Positive results do not confirm alcoholism but may indicate recent use.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Elevated ethanol or EtG levels are most commonly due to recent alcohol consumption. False positives can occur with certain medications or metabolic conditions, but this is rare.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Ethanol & EtG Screen

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you once results are ready.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
Avoid alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours before testing if instructed, as it may affect the accuracy of ethanol levels. Ethylglucuronide detection is less affected by short-term abstinence, but follow your provider’s guidance.
Does this test detect other substances besides alcohol?
No, this test specifically measures ethanol and ethylglucuronide. If you suspect exposure to other substances, additional tests may be needed.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy