Ghb Poisoning

Description

• Naturally occurring analog of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)
• Used medically for narcolepsy
• Nonmedical uses:
  • Bodybuilding agent
  • Euphoric agent
  • Date-rape/predatory agent
• γ-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) precursors (γ-butyrolactone [GBL], 1,4 butanediol [1,4-BD], GHV [γ-hydroxyvalerate], and GVL) have same effects as GHB
• Onset of activity: 15–30 min after ingestion
• Duration of effect: 2–6 hr

Etiology

Deliberate or accidental ingestion of GHB