An ETG alcohol test is a type of drug test used to detect recent alcohol consumption by identifying ethyl glucuronide (ETG), a direct metabolite of alcohol. Unlike breath or blood tests that measure current intoxication, ETG testing can detect alcohol use for several days after drinking has stopped.
Because of this extended detection window, ETG tests are commonly used in workplace monitoring, treatment programs, court cases, probation requirements, and recovery settings.
Want to estimate how long ETG may remain detectable?
An ETG test does not measure alcohol itself. Instead, it detects ethyl glucuronide (ETG), a substance formed in the body when alcohol is metabolized.
ETG remains detectable in urine long after alcohol has left the bloodstream, which is why this test can identify drinking that occurred days earlier—even when a person is no longer intoxicated.
After alcohol is consumed, the liver breaks it down into several byproducts. One of those byproducts is ethyl glucuronide (ETG), which is excreted in urine.
ETG testing uses laboratory analysis to detect the presence of this metabolite. Because ETG is not eliminated as quickly as alcohol itself, the test can identify prior alcohol use even when breath or blood tests would show negative results.
ETG is typically detectable in urine for 48 to 72 hours after alcohol consumption. In cases of heavy or repeated drinking, detection may extend toward the upper range of approximately 80 hours.
The detection window is not fixed. It can vary significantly based on drinking patterns, total alcohol consumed, metabolism, hydration, body composition, and liver function.
Laboratories use cutoff thresholds to determine whether an ETG test is reported as positive. Common cutoff levels include 100 ng/mL, 200 ng/mL, and 500 ng/mL.
Lower cutoffs are more sensitive and can detect smaller amounts of alcohol exposure, while higher cutoffs reduce the likelihood of incidental exposure being reported as positive. The cutoff level used can significantly affect test interpretation.
ETG tests are highly sensitive. In some cases, exposure to products containing alcohol—such as mouthwash, hand sanitizers, or certain medications—may contribute to detectable ETG levels.
Modern testing protocols and cutoff thresholds are designed to reduce the impact of incidental exposure, but test results should always be interpreted in context.
Can one drink cause a positive ETG test?
In some cases, yes—especially when lower cutoff levels are used and testing occurs soon after drinking.
Does drinking water clear ETG faster?
Hydration may affect urine concentration, but it does not reliably eliminate ETG or guarantee a negative result.
Why do ETG results vary between people?
Individual metabolism, drinking patterns, body composition, liver function, and lab thresholds all influence results.
If an ETG test result could have serious consequences—such as employment, legal, or treatment-related outcomes—consider confirming details directly with the testing provider or a qualified healthcare professional.
If alcohol use has become difficult to control or abstinence is challenging, support and treatment options are available.
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