Skip to content

Ethanol concentration in serum/plasma (quantitative)

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

This test measures the amount of alcohol (ethanol) in your blood, typically done to assess recent alcohol consumption or detect alcohol poisoning.

Quick summary

["Your blood alcohol level helps doctors determine if you’ve had recent alcohol intake or if you need urgent medical attention."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
20470-1
Short code
Ethanol SerPl Ql Scn
Synonyms
Ethanol SerPl Ql Scn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
screen
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 Is Done

Doctors may order this test if you’ve been exposed to alcohol in high amounts (e.g., after drinking heavily or in a dangerous situation), if you’re experiencing symptoms like confusion, vomiting, or slow breathing, or if you’re suspected of alcohol poisoning. It can also be used in legal settings or to monitor alcohol use in certain medical conditions.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The lab then uses a specialized method (likely immunoassay or enzymatic testing) to measure the precise amount of ethanol in your blood.

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 by your provider.

What to Expect During the Test

You’ll have a needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. It may feel like a small pinch, and you might feel lightheaded for a moment. The process takes just a few minutes.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

High ethanol levels can indicate acute alcohol intoxication, alcohol poisoning, or recent heavy drinking. Very low or undetectable levels may suggest recent abstinence or medical conditions affecting alcohol metabolism. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation, as results can vary based on individual factors like metabolism, hydration, or medications.

Short name

Ethanol Level

Frequently asked questions

How soon will I get my results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 2 business days, depending on your lab. Your doctor will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
What does a high ethanol level mean?
A high ethanol level often means you’ve had recent alcohol consumption. It can help determine if you need medical attention for alcohol poisoning or if you’ve been exposed to alcohol in a dangerous way.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
No, avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before the test to get an accurate reading. If you’ve had alcohol recently, your results may not reflect your true blood alcohol level.
  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