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Ethanol (Alcohol) in Urine, Mass Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of alcohol (ethanol) present in your urine, often used to check for recent alcohol consumption or to monitor sobriety.

Quick summary

["Helps track alcohol use and detect recent drinking patterns."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5645-7
Short code
Ethanol Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
Ethanol Ur-mCnc
Category
chemistry
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

Why This Test Is Done

Doctors may order this test to evaluate alcohol use, assess sobriety after drinking, or check for alcohol-related health issues, such as liver problems or addiction. It can also be part of workplace or legal screenings.

How the Test Works

A small urine sample is collected and analyzed using a specialized method (often chromatography or immunoassay) to measure ethanol concentration. The result is expressed in mass concentration units.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but drinking alcohol before the test may affect results. If you’re undergoing a sobriety check, avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before testing.

Possible Results and Interpretation

Results may vary depending on the test method and lab standards. A positive result indicates alcohol presence, but interpretation depends on clinical context (e.g., time since drinking).

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

High levels of ethanol in urine can indicate recent alcohol consumption, potential alcohol abuse, or medical conditions affecting metabolism. Chronic or excessive alcohol use may lead to long-term health risks, including liver damage or addiction.

Short name

Urine Alcohol Level

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on the lab’s processing time.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before testing to get an accurate result, especially if this is for sobriety or monitoring purposes.
Does this test detect alcohol from food?
No, this test specifically measures ethanol from alcohol consumption, not from dietary sources.
  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