Doctor's Assessment Included
Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.
Alcohol (EtG)
An EtG urine test is a qualitative screening that detects the presence of ethyl glucuronide (EtG), a direct metabolite of ethanol. EtG can be detected in urine for up to 80 hours after alcohol consumption, making it a sensitive biomarker for recent alcohol exposure.
What It Measures
This test detects the presence of ethyl glucuronide (EtG) in urine. EtG is a phase II metabolite formed when ethanol is conjugated with glucuronic acid in the liver. Unlike ethanol itself, which is eliminated from the body within hours, EtG persists in urine for a significantly longer period.
The test provides a qualitative result indicating whether EtG is present above the assay cut-off level, serving as evidence of recent alcohol consumption.
Why It Matters
EtG testing extends the detection window for alcohol use far beyond what standard breath or blood alcohol tests can achieve. This makes it particularly valuable for abstinence monitoring programmes, treatment compliance verification, and clinical assessments.
The sensitivity of EtG testing means it can detect even low-level alcohol exposure, providing a reliable tool for situations where alcohol abstinence must be verified.
When to Test
Testing may be relevant for alcohol abstinence monitoring, substance abuse treatment programmes, workplace compliance, and legal or forensic evaluations. EtG is detectable for up to approximately 80 hours after alcohol consumption.
Consult a healthcare professional for guidance on testing frequency and interpretation of results in the appropriate clinical context.