Ethyl glucuronide (EtG) is a direct, minor metabolite that can be used as a biomarker for ethanol exposure. It is a breakdown product of alcohol and can be found in urine much longer than alcohol in the blood or breath, making it a useful marker for detecting recent alcohol consumption. The presence of EtG in urine can be detected up to 48 hours after alcohol consumption, and in some cases, it can be detectable for up to 80 hours post-consumption, depending on the dose taken prior to specimen collection. This makes EtG testing a valuable tool for confirming alcohol abstinence and for detecting recent alcohol consumption in individuals.
Its important to note that incidental exposure to ethanol from non-beverage sources, such as common products purchased at grocery stores or pharmacies, can also result in a positive drug test for EtG. Additionally, the levels of EtG in urine cannot be used to determine how much alcohol a person has ingested or whether a person is under the influence of alcohol, as the exact EtG number is influenced by several factors, including how recently alcohol was consumed.
Overall, EtG testing plays a crucial role in detecting recent alcohol consumption and confirming alcohol abstinence, making it a valuable tool in various settings, including clinical, forensic, and workplace environments.
