Ethanol concentration in serum or plasma (quantitative measurement)
This test measures the amount of alcohol (ethanol) in your blood or body fluids. It helps doctors assess alcohol use, detect intoxication, or monitor conditions like chronic alcoholism.
["Knowing your alcohol level can help track drinking habits or medical needs related to alcohol exposure."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 77768-0
- Short code
- Ethanol CtO Ur Cfm-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Ethanol CtO 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 Matters
Ethanol levels are critical for diagnosing alcohol poisoning, evaluating chronic alcohol use, or checking for recent alcohol consumption. High levels may indicate intoxication, while persistent elevated levels could signal alcohol dependence or abuse.
What to Expect During the Test
A blood sample is typically drawn from your arm. If testing urine or saliva, you may be asked to provide a sample in a sterile container. The test is usually quick and painless, with results available within hours or days depending on lab processing.
Common Uses for This Test
Doctors may order this test to diagnose alcohol poisoning, assess liver function in heavy drinkers, evaluate for alcohol withdrawal symptoms, or monitor treatment for alcohol use disorders. It can also help determine if you’ve consumed alcohol recently, such as before surgery.
Factors That Can Affect Results
Several factors may influence ethanol levels, including recent alcohol consumption, food intake, time since drinking, medications (like antabuse), or certain medical conditions. Avoid drinking alcohol for at least 24 hours before testing if instructed by your provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Ethanol Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my test results back?
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
What does a high or low ethanol level mean?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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