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Sodium Octanoate Gastric Emptying Breath Test (Gastric Emptying Time)

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

A breath-based test that tracks how quickly an oral sodium octanoate dose leaves the stomach to estimate gastric emptying time.

Quick summary

["This test helps determine whether food or liquids move through your stomach at an appropriate rate."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
48584-7
Short code
NM ExG GE time p 100mg Na octanoate PO
Synonyms
NM ExG GE time p 100mg Na octanoate PO
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
nm
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 this test?

This is a noninvasive gastric emptying test. It uses a measured oral dose of sodium octanoate and repeated breath measurements to estimate how long material takes to leave the stomach.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered for symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, early fullness, prolonged fullness after meals, or upper abdominal discomfort. It is also used to evaluate suspected delayed stomach emptying and may help guide treatment.

How is the test performed?

You drink a measured dose of sodium octanoate, which may be 100 mg according to the laboratory order. Breath samples are then collected over time and analyzed to estimate your gastric emptying time.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's fasting instructions, as the test is generally performed after a period without food. Tell the care team about diabetes, recent surgery, pregnancy, and all medicines; do not stop medicines unless the clinician instructs you to do so.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A prolonged gastric emptying time may indicate delayed stomach emptying, sometimes associated with diabetes, medication effects, neurologic or metabolic disorders, or postoperative changes. A shortened time can occur with rapid gastric emptying and may also cause symptoms. The result should be interpreted with your symptoms, medicines, medical history, and other relevant testing.

Short name

Sodium octanoate gastric emptying test

Frequently asked questions

Is the sodium octanoate breath test radioactive?
The commonly used stable-isotope version is not radioactive. The exact tracer and preparation used should be confirmed with the testing laboratory.
How long does the test take?
It usually requires several hours because breath samples must be collected over time. Your laboratory will provide the specific arrival and completion times.
Can I take my medicines before the test?
Some medicines can affect gastric emptying, but you should not stop them on your own. Ask the ordering clinician which medicines, if any, should be held and for how long.
  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