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Ethanol (Serum/Plasma) Mass Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of alcohol (ethanol) in your blood, helping doctors assess alcohol exposure or intoxication.

Quick summary

["Your blood alcohol level helps track drinking patterns, detect intoxication, or monitor health risks from alcohol use."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5641-6
Short code
Ethanol ExG-mCnc
Synonyms
Ethanol ExG-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Matters

Blood alcohol levels are critical for diagnosing conditions like alcohol poisoning, guiding treatment for substance use disorders, or evaluating chronic alcohol exposure. High levels may indicate recent heavy drinking or alcohol dependence, while low levels could suggest abstinence or recent abstinence.

How the Test Works

Your blood sample is tested using a specialized chemical method to detect and quantify ethanol. This process identifies the alcohol present in your bloodstream, often measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but avoid eating or drinking anything (except water) for at least 2 hours before the test if instructed. If you’ve consumed alcohol recently, fasting may affect results, so follow your healthcare provider’s guidance.

Possible Results and Interpretation

Results are typically reported in mg/dL. Interpretation depends on context—such as recent drinking, medical history, or symptoms—but always discuss findings with your doctor.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Ethanol Level

Frequently asked questions

What does my ethanol level tell me about my health?
High levels (above 80 mg/dL) may indicate acute intoxication, which can be dangerous. Chronic exposure (consistent high levels) may signal alcohol use disorder or liver strain. Your doctor will consider your symptoms, medical history, and other test results to assess risks or needs for treatment.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor may recommend this test occasionally for monitoring alcohol use, detecting intoxication, or evaluating liver health. Frequency depends on your medical needs, such as whether you’re recovering from alcohol use disorder or managing a condition affected by alcohol.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
If your doctor hasn’t specified otherwise, avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before testing to get an accurate result. If you’ve consumed alcohol recently, fasting may be advised to prevent interference with the test.
  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