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Ethyl glucuronide (EtG) in urine

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

This test measures ethyl glucuronide, a metabolite of ethanol (alcohol), in your urine. It helps determine recent alcohol consumption, often used in screening for alcohol use disorders or after suspected alcohol exposure.

Quick summary

["Detects recent alcohol use with urine samples for clarity and accuracy."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58377-3
Short code
Ethyl glucuronide Ur Ql Cfm
Synonyms
Ethyl glucuronide Ur Ql Cfm
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 This Test Measures

Ethyl glucuronide (EtG) is a breakdown product of alcohol that appears in urine shortly after drinking. Unlike traditional breath or blood alcohol tests, this test can detect alcohol use for up to 80 hours (about 3–4 days) after consumption, making it useful for identifying prolonged or heavy drinking patterns.

Why It’s Used

Healthcare providers may order this test to assess alcohol use in patients with suspected alcohol misuse, addiction, or to monitor sobriety after treatment. It’s also used in workplace drug testing, legal cases, or when other tests (like breath alcohol) aren’t reliable.

Sample Collection and Preparation

You’ll provide a urine sample in a sterile container, typically collected at a clinic or lab. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed using a highly sensitive method to detect even small amounts of EtG.

How the Test Works

The lab uses a specialized technique (often immunoassay or chromatography) to measure EtG levels. This test doesn’t measure alcohol directly but identifies its metabolic byproduct, which remains in the body longer than alcohol itself.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Ethyl Glucuronide (EtG) Test

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the final report.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
Yes, but avoid heavy or prolonged alcohol use before testing. If you suspect recent drinking, inform your provider—they may recommend timing your sample carefully or other tests.
Does this test detect alcohol in other ways (e.g., through food or supplements)?
No, this test specifically measures EtG, which is only produced from alcohol metabolism. It won’t detect alcohol from external sources like supplements or certain medications.
  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