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Ethanol, Creatinine, Urine

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

A urine test that measures alcohol (ethanol) and creatinine, which helps assess recent alcohol exposure while accounting for urine concentration.

Quick summary

["Detects alcohol in urine and may include creatinine to help interpret how concentrated the urine sample is."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58356-7
Short code
Ethanol/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Ethanol/Creat Ur
Category
kidney
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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

What is this test?

This test measures the amount of ethanol, a form of alcohol, in a urine sample. It may also report urine creatinine, a substance used to evaluate urine concentration and help interpret the ethanol result.

Why might I need this test?

Urine ethanol testing may be used in workplace or school screening, medical evaluation, or situations involving concerns about alcohol use. Creatinine can help show whether a low ethanol measurement reflects a dilute urine sample.

How is the test performed?

A urine specimen is collected and analyzed in the laboratory for ethanol. The laboratory may compare the ethanol amount with the urine creatinine level to reduce the effect of variations in urine concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory or clinician. Alcohol can remain detectable in urine after drinking, so report any recent alcohol use and do not try to manipulate or dilute the sample.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Ethanol with Creatinine

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive urine ethanol result mean?
It means that alcohol was detected in the urine at the time of collection. It does not by itself determine when or how much alcohol was consumed.
Why is creatinine included with urine ethanol?
Creatinine helps show how concentrated the urine is. This can help distinguish a lower ethanol measurement in very dilute urine from a lower measurement in a more concentrated sample.
How long can alcohol remain detectable in urine?
Alcohol may remain detectable for some time after drinking, but the duration varies with the amount consumed, metabolism, hydration, medications, and other factors. A clinician or testing laboratory should interpret the result in context.
  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