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Ethyl glucuronide (EtG) in urine

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

This test measures ethyl glucuronide, a metabolite of alcohol, in your urine. It helps detect recent alcohol consumption.

Quick summary

["This test checks for alcohol use within the past few days."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
77769-8
Short code
Ethyl glucuronide CtO Ur Cfm-mCnc
Synonyms
Ethyl glucuronide CtO 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

What Does Ethyl Glucuronide Measure?

Ethyl glucuronide (EtG) is a breakdown product of ethanol (alcohol) that appears in urine after drinking. Unlike traditional alcohol tests that measure alcohol levels directly, EtG remains in the body for several days after alcohol use, making it useful for detecting recent drinking that standard tests might miss.

Why Is This Test Used?

Doctors or testing programs may use this test to assess recent alcohol use in situations like workplace safety checks, legal proceedings, or monitoring for substance use disorders. It helps provide a clearer picture of alcohol exposure over time.

How Is the Test Performed?

You’ll provide a urine sample in a sterile container. The sample is then analyzed in a lab using a specialized method to detect the presence of ethyl glucuronide.

What Are the Results Typically Used For?

Positive results indicate recent alcohol consumption, while negative results suggest no detectable alcohol use during the test window. These results are often used alongside other information to guide decisions about health, safety, or legal matters.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Ethyl Glucuronide in Urine

Short name

Urine Ethyl Glucuronide

Frequently asked questions

How long does ethyl glucuronide stay in the urine?
Ethyl glucuronide typically remains detectable in urine for about 72 hours after the last drink, depending on factors like alcohol dose, metabolism, and individual differences. This window is longer than many other alcohol tests, making it useful for identifying recent use.
Can false positives or negatives occur?
False positives are rare but can occur due to certain medications, dietary supplements, or other substances. False negatives are less likely with this test but may happen if alcohol was consumed shortly before testing or if the sample was improperly handled. Your healthcare provider or tester will follow standard protocols to minimize errors.
Does this test show how much alcohol was consumed?
No, this test only confirms the presence of alcohol metabolites and does not provide a direct measurement of alcohol quantity consumed. It helps determine if alcohol was ingested recently, not how much.
  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