Drug Monitoring, Alcohol Metabolite, with Confirmation, Urine
Also known as: Prescription Drug Monitoring, Pain Management
Use
This urine-based test is designed to assess recent exposure to ethanol by detecting its metabolites, ethyl glucuronide (EtG) and ethyl sulfate (EtS). The measurement of both EtG and EtS improves specificity: EtS—unlike EtG—does not appear to be produced in vitro by bacteria in the specimen, ensuring a more reliable indication of in vivo alcohol intake. The test interprets EtG concentrations ≥500 ng/mL as positive only when accompanied by EtS concentrations ≥100 ng/mL, minimizing false positives. Use of both biomarkers supports accurate clinical monitoring of abstinence or alcohol exposure.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
Incidental exposure to alcohol—that is, via non-beverage sources like ethanol-based hand sanitizers—can still trigger positive results, as the LC-MS/MS detection method identifies EtG and EtS regardless of origin. EtG may be produced in vitro if ethanol-producing bacteria are present in urine; to counter this, EtS is required to meet threshold for positivity. Interpretation should always consider clinical context and possible incidental exposures.
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Urine
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
7 mL
Container
clinical drug test transport vial (random urine); sterile leak‑proof urine container acceptable
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |