Alcohol profile

Alcohol profile

Why would I take this test?

The alcohol profile looks for indicators in your liver and red blood cells for long-term effects of alcohol consumption. The test can also prove alcohol use in the last 2 to 4 weeks. We all know there are increased health risks linked to regular drinking, particularly if you drink more than 14 units of alcohol a week. The alcohol profile includes a liver function test, which will show the current state of your liver as well flag as any signs of damage.

The test also measures the average size and volume of your red blood cells, the mean corpuscular volume (MCV), to gauge the general health of your blood cells. This can reveal a cause for any underlying symptoms you may be experiencing.

If you need to prove alcohol use for medical or legal reasons, the test also detects alcohol levels using carbohydrate-deficient transferrin (CDT) and phosphatidylethanol (PEth), biomarkers for alcohol use in the last 2 to 4 weeks . The alcohol profile may be used as part of the DVLA medical.

How a test is done?

Our phlebotomist will tie a rubber band to your upper arm to make the veins more visible. They will swab to clean the arm, then a sterile needle attached to a tube is gently inserted into the vein and the blood is drawn into a vial (or vials if more than one test has been requested). Only one needle is used regardless of the number of tests or vials requested. The needle is removed, a plaster applied, and it’s done. You might get a small bruise around the needle mark.

Please wear loose clothing (for easy access to your arm) and let us know a preferred arm.

You can continue to take regular medication but check with your doctor whether any of your medications may affect test results.

It's easier to draw blood when:

• you are hydrated – please drink some water, especially in hot weather and for morning blood draws

• you are warm – please keep warm before the test

Fasting is not required

A non-fasting test means:

• you can eat and drink as normal before the test

• it’s advised not to drink alcohol before the test

• you can continue to take regular medication but check with your doctor whether any of your medications may affect test results

Can I have someone with me?

Of course, if that makes you more comfortable, you may have a friend or relative accompany you during a blood test.

When will I get my results?

Results returned in 5 to 7 days.

What can this test detect?

• Liver Function Testing (LFT)

• Alcohol level 

• Carbohydrate Deficient Transferrin (CDT)

• Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV)

• PEth Phosphatidyethanol (PEth)

How do I get my results?

The certified laboratory report is emailed to us, and we can either:

• email directly to you

• email directly to you and/or to your GP. We will need your written consent to share any test results, but we will discuss this with you when you book your appointment

• give it to you in person at the clinic

We highly recommend you consult with your clinician to explain test results. They can also take into account your medical history and advise you on next steps.

Further information:

NHS Drug addiction
NHS Alcohol misuse
Adfam - Support for families
DVLA Medical guidelines
Drinkaware
Alcohol Change UK