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Ethyl glucuronide in urine (24-hour collection)

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

This test measures a metabolite of alcohol found in urine over a 24-hour period to help assess recent alcohol use.

Quick summary

["It helps track how much alcohol you consumed recently."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
94399-3
Short code
Ethyl glucuronide Mec Cfm-mCnt
Synonyms
Ethyl glucuronide Mec Cfm-mCnt
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
confirm
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

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have concerns about alcohol use, such as after a suspected alcohol overdose, in cases of suspected alcohol poisoning, or to monitor someone who is recovering from alcohol dependence. It can also be used in legal or workplace settings to detect recent alcohol exposure.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine produced in a 24-hour period in a special container. Drink plenty of fluids to help empty your bladder fully each time. Avoid alcohol during this time to ensure accurate results.

What Happens During the Test

No special preparation is needed beyond the 24-hour urine collection. The collected urine is sent to a lab for analysis using a sensitive method to detect ethyl glucuronide.

What the Results Mean

The results indicate the amount of alcohol consumed within the past 24 hours. Higher levels suggest recent heavy drinking, while lower levels may indicate abstinence or minimal exposure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Ethyl glucuronide is a reliable marker for recent alcohol ingestion because it’s stable in urine and doesn’t break down as quickly as alcohol itself. This test can help diagnose alcohol-related conditions, assess compliance with treatment plans, or investigate suspected alcohol misuse in legal or medical contexts.

Short name

Urine Ethyl Glucuronide (24h)

Frequently asked questions

How soon after drinking will I test positive?
Ethyl glucuronide appears in urine about 8 to 12 hours after alcohol consumption and remains detectable for up to 72 hours, depending on the amount consumed.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
No, drinking alcohol before the 24-hour urine collection can skew results. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions to avoid alcohol during the test period.
What if my results are abnormal?
Abnormal results may prompt further evaluation, such as additional tests or discussions with your doctor to understand the cause and next steps, like treatment planning or support for alcohol use concerns.
  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