Alcohol (Ethanol), Urine Test
Alcohol (Ethanol), Urine Test
Alcohol (Ethanol), Urine test is performed to detect the presence of alcohol (ethanol) in the urine and to measure the level of alcohol concentration in the urine.
Ethanol, found in alcoholic beverages, is a substance that induces intoxication. While the majority of ethanol is broken down by the liver, a small portion (0.7-1.5%) is eliminated unchanged through urine. The highest levels of ethanol in urine are typically observed around 45-60 minutes after consuming alcohol, and traces of ethanol can be detected in urine for approximately 24 hours after consumption.
Getting this test done is recommended to determine if a person has recently consumed alcohol and/or to monitor alcohol use disorder.
Symptoms Of Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Persistent mood swings
Behavioural problems like anxiety and irritability
Insomnia
Weakened immune system
Changes in appetite and weight
Difficulty focusing on tasks
Alterations in libido and sexual function
What Is Alcohol (Ethanol), Urine Test Used For?
Alcohol (Ethanol), Urine test is performed
To identify alcoholism
As part of workplace testing
Preparation For the Test
No special preparation is required for Alcohol (Ethanol), Urine test.
Interpretation Of The Test Results
The units of measurement for the results are Milligrams per decilitre (mg/dL)
|
Type |
Value |
|
Ethanol in the urine |
<20 mg/dL |
· Elevated ethanol levels in urine are indicative of recent alcohol consumption.
FAQs
How is the sample collected for the Alcohol (Ethanol), Urine test?
A urine sample is used for this test. You will be given a sterile container by your healthcare provider to collect a urine sample.
Midstream urine collection is the proper technique for taking a urine sample. The first few urine drops should be discarded because they could contain microorganisms that are present on the genital surface. It is advised that you clean the area around your genitalia before taking a urine sample.
What are the risks involved in the Alcohol (Ethanol), Urine test sample collection?
Urine sample collection for Alcohol (Ethanol), Urine test does not pose any risks.
Can alcohol urine tests differentiate between different types of alcoholic beverages?
Alcohol urine tests are unable to distinguish between different types of alcoholic beverages; instead, they identify the presence of ethanol, the primary alcohol present in drinks.
How long does alcohol stay in urine?
The presence of alcohol in urine can usually be detected for a period ranging from 12 to 48 hours after its consumption. However, this timeframe may differ depending on variables like the amount ingested and an individual's metabolic rate.
How accurate are alcohol urine tests?
The accuracy of alcohol urine tests is typically reliable; however, results can be influenced by several factors such as the testing method employed and the timing of the test. False positive results may occur in samples containing glucose (typically found in diabetic patients) and bacteria or yeast due to fermentation.