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© Newswise.
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GHB Withdrawal Syndrome Documented
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE GHB Withdrawal Syndrome Documented Washington, DC--Chronic abusers of GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate), a drug known to induce feelings of euphoria, an alcohol-like high, and taken for its alleged bodybuilding effects, are landing in emergency departments from a severe withdrawal syndrome that comes on rapidly and can last for weeks, according to an article in the February 2001 Annals of Emergency Medicine. (Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate Withdrawal Syndrome) In a study of eight patients, researchers found that chronic abusers, many of them taking doses of the liquid drug as a bodybuilding supplement every 1 to 3 hours, experienced a rapid onset of progressively severe withdrawal symptoms after discontinuing use. Cousins of GHB, gamma butyrolactone and butanediol, available under various trade names, are similarly causing dependence, said researchers. "Unfortunately since the early stages of withdrawal from GHB cause only mild symptoms, medical attention is often delayed," said Jo Ellen Dyer, PharmD, of the California Poison Control System, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of California at San Francisco. "In many of the cases we reviewed, patients weren't recognized as needing medical treatment until their symptoms progressed to severe hallucinations and psychotic behavior requiring sedation and restraints. In one case, cardiac arrest led to the patient's death during his withdrawal course." In the eight patients studied, the onset of withdrawal symptoms began 1 to 6 hours after the last dose and symptoms lasted anywhere from 5 to 15 days. The first symptoms of withdrawal began soon after the last dose of GHB and included anxiety, insomnia, and tremor. According to researchers, these initial symptoms may progress to severe delirium and autonomic instability. Annals of Emergency Medicine is the peer-reviewed journal of the American College of Emergency Physicians, a national medical organization with more than 22,000 members. ACEP is committed to improving the quality of emergency care through continuing education, research and public education. Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, ACEP has 53 chapters representing each state, as well as Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia, and a Government Services Chapter representing emergency physicians employed by military branches and other government agencies. #### Contact: Colleen Horn
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