Ethylglucuronide in Urine

Ethylglucuronide (EtG) is produced in the liver and is a direct metabolite of the alcohol consumed. It is progressively eliminated in urine and depending on the amount of alcohol taken ethylglucuronide can be detected for 12-48 hrs. EtG in urine is a short-term marker of alcohol consumption and can be used to demonstrate abstinence during the last 1 to 2 days. All food which contains alcohol (chocolate candy, kefir, fermented juices and alcohol-free beer) can potentially contribute to form EtG and should be avoided during the abstinence period.
We are authorized to test for MPA (Medical and psychological rehabilitation programme to regain the lost driving licence) in Germany. In monitoring abstinence for MPA at least 6 EtG tests in urine are requested over a 12 months period. Urine collection has to take place within 24 h of short notice and occurs under supervision to rule out adulteration. If all urine tests for EtG are negative abstinence for the whole period can be assumed.

Further information on relevant topics

MPA Fitness to Drive

In most industrial countries if a driver loses his driving license as a result of drug or alcohol offense he has to prove abstinence for several months up to one year. The exact conditions of drug testing in urine or hair are different from country to country and depend on the individual situation.

Ethylglucuronide in Hair

The major part of ethylglucuronide (EtG) produced in the liver as a metabolite of alcohol is eliminated in urine. A small fraction is incorporated into the hair matrix. That way hair samples can be analyzed for EtG.

Blood Alcohol

Blood alcohol (BAC) is the standard test following a positive breathanalyser test in roadside testing and in suspicion testing at workplace. As a forensic laboratory we measure the alcohol in compliance with the high standards of forensic toxicology so that the results can be used without restrictions in legal proceedings.

Nationwide Workplace Drug Testing

Workplace alcohol and drug testing, in form of random controls, is of increasing importance in security related sectors. Being forensically accredited, our laboratory offers and performs on-site ADM-testing (alcohol – drug – prescription medicine testing) nationwide.