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Ethanol concentration in urine (24-hour collection)

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

This test measures the total amount of alcohol (ethanol) present in your urine over a full day. It helps doctors assess alcohol consumption patterns, detect heavy drinking, or evaluate potential alcohol-related health issues.

Quick summary

["This test helps track how much alcohol you’ve consumed in a day and its potential impact on your health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
46983-3
Short code
Ethanol Ur Cfm-mCnc
Synonyms
Ethanol 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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if they suspect heavy alcohol use, want to monitor alcohol dependence, or check for signs of alcohol-related health problems like liver damage or addiction. It’s also used in some treatment programs to track progress.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll collect all your urine for a full 24-hour period in a special container. Drink plenty of water to help flush out alcohol naturally. Avoid alcohol-containing products (like mouthwash or some medications) during this time.

What Happens During the Test?

After collecting your urine, it’s sent to a lab for analysis. The test measures the total ethanol concentration, which is reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or milligrams per gram (mg/g) of urine.

What Are the Results Mean?

Results above normal levels may indicate heavy alcohol use, but they don’t always prove addiction. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your medical history and symptoms. Very high levels could signal acute alcohol poisoning or other health risks.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Urine Ethanol

Frequently asked questions

What does a high or low result mean?
A high result suggests recent or ongoing heavy alcohol consumption, which may require further evaluation for dependence or health risks. A low result doesn’t necessarily mean no alcohol was consumed—it could reflect normal metabolism or incomplete collection. Always discuss results with your doctor.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
No, avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before testing to get an accurate result. Alcohol can skew the measurement, making it harder to assess true consumption patterns.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will contact you once they’re ready for review.
  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