Toxic ingestion of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid.
Journal Article (Journal Article)
Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) has become a popular new drug of abuse. Its effects include euphoria and disinhibition. Recently, several cases have been reported in the literature of life-threatening or lethal ingestions. We report the case of a 17-year-old male who became unresponsive after taking GHB. Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid is used outside the United States to treat narcolepsy. In the past, it was touted as a muscle-bulking aid and was taken by body-builders. It has also been implicated as a drug involved in "date-rapes." Patients who ingest excessive GHB have a markedly altered level of consciousness, as did the patient in this illustrative case. Neostigmine and physostigmine show promise as potential reversal agents. Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid overdose should be considered in any patient with altered mental status and a history of recreational drug abuse.
Full Text
Duke Authors
Cited Authors
- Viera, AJ; Yates, SW
Published Date
- April 1999
Published In
Volume / Issue
- 92 / 4
Start / End Page
- 404 - 405
PubMed ID
- 10219359
International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)
- 0038-4348
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
- 10.1097/00007611-199904000-00009
Language
- eng
Conference Location
- United States