Gamma-hydroxybutyrate, gamma-butyrolactone, and 1,4-butanediol: a case report and review of the literature

Pediatr Emerg Care. 2000 Dec;16(6):435-40. doi: 10.1097/00006565-200012000-00017.

Abstract

GHB, GBL, and 1,4-BD are prevalent drugs of abuse in the United States. Unfortunately, attempts to regulate GHB have been circumvented by clandestine trafficking through the Internet and marketing of "natural" chemical precursors . Despite repeated FDA warnings to the public about their dangers as well as recent federal scheduling of GHB and GBL, they remain accessible as "club drugs" on Internet websites, as natural dietary supplements in health food stores, and as illicit products manufactured at home or in clandestine laboratories. EDs and poison control centers nationwide will undoubtedly continue to manage GHB, GBL, and 1,4-BD toxicities.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • 4-Butyrolactone / chemistry
  • 4-Butyrolactone / poisoning*
  • Adjuvants, Anesthesia / chemistry
  • Adjuvants, Anesthesia / poisoning*
  • Adolescent
  • Butylene Glycols / chemistry
  • Butylene Glycols / poisoning*
  • Emergency Medical Services
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lorazepam / therapeutic use
  • Seizures / chemically induced*
  • Seizures / drug therapy
  • Sodium Oxybate / chemistry
  • Sodium Oxybate / poisoning*
  • Structure-Activity Relationship
  • Substance-Related Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Adjuvants, Anesthesia
  • Butylene Glycols
  • Sodium Oxybate
  • 1,4-butanediol
  • Lorazepam
  • 4-Butyrolactone