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Ethyl glucuronide (EtG) in saliva

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

This test measures ethyl glucuronide, a metabolite of ethanol, in your saliva to detect recent alcohol use.

Quick summary

["Detects alcohol consumption within the past few days, even if you’ve stopped drinking."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
104693-7
Short code
Ethyl glucuronide Sal Ql Scn
Synonyms
Ethyl glucuronide Sal Ql Scn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
screen
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

What Is Ethyl Glucuronide?

Ethyl glucuronide (EtG) is a breakdown product of alcohol that appears in your body after drinking. Unlike traditional urine tests, this test uses saliva, which can detect alcohol use for up to several days after consumption, depending on how much you drank and your metabolism.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Saliva EtG tests are often used in workplace drug screens, legal cases, or by healthcare providers to assess recent alcohol exposure without relying on urine samples. They’re also useful for monitoring alcohol use in certain treatment programs.

How Is the Test Performed?

A healthcare provider or lab technician will collect a small saliva sample from you. The test is quick and painless, typically taking less than 10 minutes. Results are then analyzed to determine if alcohol metabolites were present.

What Do the Results Mean?

A positive result indicates recent alcohol consumption, while a negative result suggests no detectable alcohol use. However, interpretation depends on clinical context (e.g., dose, timing, or medical history).

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

EtG Saliva

Frequently asked questions

How soon after drinking can EtG be detected in saliva?
EtG can be detected in saliva within hours of alcohol consumption and may remain detectable for up to 72 hours or longer, depending on factors like alcohol dose and individual metabolism.
Can food or other substances affect this test?
No, EtG tests specifically measure alcohol metabolites. Other substances, such as medications or dietary components, do not interfere with this test.
What if my results are positive but I don’t remember drinking?
A positive result doesn’t always mean you drank recently—it could indicate a single large intake or a pattern of moderate use. Consult your healthcare provider to discuss your results and next steps.
  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