There has been a debate all over the internet about whether an accurate test as such can be tricked with some practices and methods. You are probably reading this article because you’re looking for an answer too. If you are, then let’s learn the basics first.
What is an ETG test?
You probably stumbled upon this word already when you were doing your research, so let’s try and dissect this as finely as we can, as there are a lot of technical words that are involved in this acronym alone. ETG stands for Ethyl glucuronide, which, if you read further, is the by-product of alcohol consumption. See, the moment you consume alcohol, your body reacts to it no matter what the volume is.
With the process called glucuronidation, your body’s metabolism is able to produce a derivative of Ethanol from your alcohol consumption and is able to present that in your urine. Now how is this different from just the usual breath-in-the-mouth alcohol tests that we’d normally see on movies and other social media sources? The difference, as you guessed it, is kind of huge.
Why the ETG test is Used
If a person has been reprimanded multiple times for driving under the influence of alcohol, it is most likely that he’ll have to undergo this test to prove he is guilty of doing the same crime again. So, if you’re guilty of doing the same, I suggest you continue reading. If not, well, a bit of information won’t really hurt.
In terms of accuracy, an ETG test is far more reliable compared to how the cops usually catch their subjects. This is evidently due to the influence or intoxication per se, which is the usual scenario for such related crimes. In most cases, this is true, but what if the cops can no longer smell nor detect any alcohol from the subject? This is where the ETG test comes in handy.
How much do you have to drink in order to fail an ETG test?
The answer is not absolute. One’s body composition or metabolism is always different from another, so to set a constant is already a mistake in itself. It is worth noting, however, that someone can test positive even after 24 hours of alcohol intake.
So Why Use it?
This question can easily be dismissed by the fact that urine samples can hold a lot of information and extend it far more than you can ever imagine. You might have seen the question, “Have you consumed alcohol in the last 24 hours?” this test basically defies the logic of this question, but it goes beyond that.
Can the results be altered?
We’re definitely reaching the climax of this article. Let’s lay down what we know so far:
- Alcohol intake can definitely affect ETG result
- The longevity of ETG extends more than 24 hours
- The test is more on a case-to-case basis
We’ve done our research enough to say that yes, you can still pass the test even at really short notice, but this requires a lot of effort. The best thing to do is to abstain, but when faced with difficulties and pushed to the edge of a cliff, trying to alter the results might be helpful.
As stated, being the by-product of your body’s metabolism, the results can actually be altered, but to what extent? This is where it gets trickier, but we’ll try to simplify it as much as possible. If you’re a heavy drinker, then you’re most likely to get caught versus someone who only drinks occasionally but, when given the short notice, can still fail.
Abstinence is Key
If you are under probation, this is obviously the best way to pass an ETG test, as samples cannot lie nor be manipulated. Depending on the type, it is safe to assume that the amount of time that one has to abstain has already been considered as well.
If the notice is really that short, there’s a higher chance of you testing positive and failing the test. So, people who are on probation are more likely to pass since they probably are already given a heads up versus those regular individuals who just happened to be involved in an establishment that needed to perform the said test.
In this instance, is there a way to pass, or are you likely to fail?
The right amount of Cleansing
Cleansing always plays a big role when it comes to passing tests like this one. This typically applies to drug-related exams as well, but in this case, increasing your fluid intake and inducing more electrolyte-infused drinks usually get the job done. It is worth noting, though, that the volume can differ from one individual to another. Factors such as body composition, mass, total alcohol intake, and the like are needed to be considered.
Does drinking water reduce ETG?
The answer is yes, but it does not necessarily mean you’re going to test negative. Again, as stated above, it will vary depending on your alcohol intake and the amount of fluid you take in an effort of trying to get rid of it.
Does sweating help get rid of ETG?
There are no proven studies yet to support the theory. The idea, however, revolves around the fact that your body’s metabolism is involved during the process, so it might impact the production or reduction of the said metabolite.
The bottom line is if you’re a heavy drinker and had to undergo the test within 24 hours, you’re more than likely to fail.
Realistic ETG detection times
Your blood samples can still test positive even after 5 days or beyond after your last consumption. This, however, is based on the intake itself and does not include any efforts of lessening as well as the individual body composition, which can greatly affect the amount of ETG in the urine.
ETG Test FAQs
Can you pass an ETG test after 3 beers?
If you are really planning to pass this test, it will be best if you avoid taking any alcohol within the next 12-48 hours.
How many beers will fail ETG?
A slight amount of alcohol intake will most likely test positive if the test is taken within the next 24 hours. In this case, you may try cleansing and increasing your amount of fluid intake. This will help get rid of the traces but it will still depend on the volume of alcohol intake.
I am a passionate beer connoisseur with a deep appreciation for the art and science of brewing. With years of experience tasting and evaluating various beers, I love to share my opinions and insights with others and I am always eager to engage in lively discussions about my favorite beverage.
