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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 24-hour period, helping healthcare providers assess alcohol consumption.

Quick summary

["This test helps track long-term alcohol exposure and supports treatment planning for alcohol use disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5644-0
Short code
Ethanol Ur Ql
Synonyms
Ethanol Ur Ql
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 Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test if you have concerns about alcohol use, are undergoing treatment for alcohol dependence, or need to monitor your alcohol intake over time. It can also be used in research or clinical settings to evaluate patterns of alcohol consumption.

How Is the Sample Collected?

You will be asked to collect all urine produced in a 24-hour period, typically starting after midnight and ending the following midnight. The urine is usually stored in a sealed container and returned to the lab for testing.

What Happens During Testing?

The collected urine sample is analyzed using a sensitive laboratory method to measure ethanol levels. The test quantifies the total ethanol present, accounting for any alcohol consumed during the period.

What Are the Results?

Results are reported as the total ethanol concentration in your urine over the 24-hour period. Interpretation depends on clinical context, such as whether the test is screening or confirmatory.

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 positive result mean?
A positive result means that ethanol was detected in your urine over the 24-hour period, indicating alcohol consumption. The exact amount can help determine the severity of use or support treatment decisions.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your medical needs, such as whether you are in treatment for alcohol use or monitoring for relapse. Follow-up testing may be scheduled periodically.
Can I drink alcohol before the test?
No, you should avoid alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours before starting your urine collection to ensure accurate results. If you have questions about timing, discuss it with your healthcare provider.
  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