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Harris O, Siefried KJ, Chiew A, Jamshidi N, Chung DT, Moore N, Nic Ionmhain U, Roberts DM, Ezard N, Brett J. Trends in reported GHB-related presentations to Sydney emergency departments between 2012 and 2021. Emerg Med Australas 2024; 36:604-608. [PMID: 38558322 DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.14402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In overdose, gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and its precursors can cause decreased levels of consciousness, coma and death. Here, we aim to describe reported exposure to GHB at four EDs in Sydney, New South Wales (NSW), Australia. METHODS We searched the ED databases of four Sydney metropolitan hospitals for presentations relating to GHB exposure between 2012 and 2021. We calculated annual number of presentations stratified by hospital, age, sex, mode of arrival and triage category. RESULTS A total of 3510 GHB-related presentations to ED were recorded across the four hospitals. Data for all hospitals were only available from 2015 onwards and between 2015 and 2021; there was a 114% increase in annual presentations (from 228 to 487). Males represented 68.7% of all presentations and the median age was 31 years (range 16-74 years). There was an increase in the proportion of female presentations between 2012 and 2021 (from 27.9% to 37.9%) along with the severity of presentation over the same period, with the proportion of presentations with a triage category 1 increasing from 19.7% to 34.5%. CONCLUSIONS Increases in recorded absolute number and severity of GHB-related presentations to Sydney EDs are a major public health concern. There may also be shifts in the demographics of those with GHB-related presentations. Renewed efforts are required to understand the drivers of these increases to optimally target harm reduction approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Harris
- St Vincent's Clinical School, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Krista J Siefried
- Alcohol and Drug Service, St Vincent's Hospital Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs of Concern (NCCRED), c/o The University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre (NDARC), The University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Angela Chiew
- Toxicology Department, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nazila Jamshidi
- Drug Health Department, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Clinical Pharmacology and Drug Health Services, Sydney Local Health Districy, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Daniel T Chung
- Toxicology Department, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nicholas Moore
- Clinical Toxicology & Emergency Medicine, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Una Nic Ionmhain
- Clinical Toxicology & Emergency Medicine, Liverpool Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Darren M Roberts
- Drug Health Department, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- New South Wales Poison's Information Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital Weastmead, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nadine Ezard
- Alcohol and Drug Service, St Vincent's Hospital Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs of Concern (NCCRED), c/o The University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- The National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre (NDARC), The University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Drug and Alcohol Clinical Research and Improvement Network (DACRIN), Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jonathan Brett
- St Vincent's Clinical School, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, St Vincent's Hospital Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Jackson KJ. Party and play: Associations between US male sex workers' internet advertising characteristics and advertising chemsex to prospective clients. Drug Alcohol Rev 2024. [PMID: 38946315 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION It is broadly recognised that chemsex is more prevalent among men who have sex with men, but little is known about chemsex in the context of commercial sexual encounters between men. This study investigates sex worker advertising characteristics and their advertised willingness to engage in chemsex with clients. METHODS Data were web scraped from the profiles of US-based male sex workers (N = 3773) advertising services on an internet advertising platform in February 2021. This study describes the association between chemsex advertising and advertised age, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, encounter type and COVID-19 acknowledgement. RESULTS 28.5% of sex workers (n = 1077) advertised chemsex, 64.7% of whom were 25-34 years-old (n = 697). The odds of chemsex advertising increased between ages 21-24 (aOR = 1.20, 95% CI 1.09-1.32) and declined among sex workers over 35 years-old (aOR = 0.97, 95% CI 0.95-1.00). Sex workers advertising as bisexual were more likely to advertise chemsex than those identifying as gay (aOR = 1.38, 95% CI 1.18-1.63). Sex workers acknowledging COVID-19 were less likely to advertise chemsex compared to those who did not (aOR = 0.65, 95% CI 0.48-0.89). Encounter type was associated with chemsex advertising among sex workers in this sample; sex workers not offering the "boyfriend experience" were more than 50% less likely to advertise chemsex than those who did offer the boyfriend experience (aOR = 0.47, 95% CI 0.36-0.61). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Chemsex advertising in this population is likely influenced by multiple sociodemographic and occupational characteristics. Identifying sex workers likely to engage in chemsex based on advertising data could inform targeted education and harm-reduction campaigns in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristopher J Jackson
- Center for AIDS Preventions Studies, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
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Hawkinson DE, Witzel TC, Gafos M. Exploring practices to enhance benefits and reduce risks of chemsex among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men: A meta-ethnography. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 127:104398. [PMID: 38555721 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemsex is the intentional combining of specific drugs with sex, primarily by gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), to enhance intimacy, pleasure, and prolong sexual sessions. Practices vary across geographic and social settings. Participants report benefits and risks of chemsex. Studies have previously reviewed chemsex practices and harm reduction interventions separately. This review aims to examine both together by describing and understanding practices that men employ to navigate the perceived benefits and risks of chemsex. METHODS We conducted a systematic meta-ethnographic review of published qualitative literature, screening titles, abstracts, and full texts on defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Using reciprocal and refutational translation techniques, we analysed study participants' (first-order) and researchers' (second-order) accounts of benefit-enhancing and risk-reducing chemsex practices. Finally, we employed line-of-argument synthesis techniques to develop our own higher-level interpretations (third-order constructs) of these chemsex practices. RESULTS Our search yielded 6356 records, from which, we included 23 articles in our review. Most studies were conducted in high-income Western countries. Across studies, participants acted at the individual, interpersonal, and community levels to enhance benefits and reduce risks, which made up our third-order constructs. Eight themes emerged from first- and second-order constructs to describe these practices, which included personal preparation, personal boundaries, biomedical measures, structured use of drugs, leaning on partners, injecting practices, group organising, watching out for others, and teaching and learning. Contextual factors like trust, agency, access, stigma, and setting moderated whether and how participants engaged in these practices, and if practices enhanced benefits or reduced risks. CONCLUSION Health promotion programmes and research focused on chemsex must account for the benefits and the risks that GBMSM associate with this type of sexualised drug use and target the moderating factors that shape the practices they employ to navigate these benefits and risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drew E Hawkinson
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, United Kingdom
| | - T Charles Witzel
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom; Center of Excellence in Research on Gender, Sexuality and Health, Mahidol University, 999 Phutthamonthon Sai 4 Rd, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Mitzy Gafos
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, United Kingdom.
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Joyce S, Lea S, Woolner M, Leddy A. Treatment of Gamma Hydroxybutyrate Withdrawal in a Pregnant Female: A Case Report. J Addict Med 2024; 18:342-344. [PMID: 38345233 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000001280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is used illicitly for its sedative hypnotic effects, and those who take it regularly are at risk of developing a substance use disorder. Withdrawal from GHB can include severe symptoms that may require medical management. For GHB use and withdrawal during pregnancy, there are no evidence- or practice-based guidelines to follow, and there is only minimal research literature. CASE SUMMARY We present the case of a 32-year-old woman, G1P0 at 29 weeks and 6 days of gestation, admitted to the perinatal unit at a tertiary hospital for GHB withdrawal management and stabilization. GHB withdrawal was managed with a combination of baclofen and diazepam. We report the dosing and tapering of these medications throughout her 14-day admission. Withdrawal symptoms were well managed with this medication protocol, and she did not experience any features of complicated withdrawal. The patient later presented to hospital in preterm labor and precipitously delivered a healthy, preterm infant male at 34 weeks and 5 days of gestation. At 7 months postpartum, the patient continued to engage with perinatal addiction service, reported no use of GHB since her admission, and was parenting her healthy son. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE There is a paucity of guidelines for managing GHB withdrawal in pregnancy. This case demonstrates good clinical outcomes administering a short-term combination of diazepam and baclofen during the third trimester of pregnancy. This case helps to fill a gap in the literature and may inform future research or clinical decision-making in similar situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Joyce
- From the Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, Canada (SJ); FISAM Family and Addiction Medicine Physician, Perinatal Addiction Medical Lead, Island Health, Victoria, Canada (SL); BCCSU Addiction Medicine Fellowship, Island Health, Vancouver Island, Canada (MW); HerWay Home, Victoria, Canada (MW); and Research and Knowledge Translation in Long-Term Care, Island Health, Vancouver Island, Canada (AL)
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Smith JL, Greene S, McCutcheon D, Weber C, Kotkis E, Soderstrom J, Douglas B, Lenton S, Grigg J, Dessauer P, Ezard N, Fatovich DM. A multicentre case series of analytically confirmed gamma-hydroxybutyrate intoxications in Western Australian emergency departments: Pre-hospital circumstances, co-detections and clinical outcomes. Drug Alcohol Rev 2024. [PMID: 38426636 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) use is associated with high risk of accidental overdose. This study examined the pre-hospital circumstances, demographic characteristics and clinical outcomes of analytically confirmed GHB emergency department (ED) presentations in Western Australia (WA). METHODS This case series was conducted across three WA EDs involved in the Emerging Drugs Network of Australia, from April 2020 to July 2022. Patient demographics, pre-hospital drug exposure circumstances and ED presentation and outcome characteristics were collected from ambulance and hospital medical records of GHB-confirmed cases. RESULTS GHB was detected in 45 ED presentations. The median age was 34 years and 53.3% (n = 24) were female. Most patients arrived at the ED by ambulance (n = 37, 85.7%) and required immediate emergency care (Australasian Triage Score 1 or 2 = 97.8%). One-third of patients were admitted to intensive care (n = 14, 31.1%). Methylamphetamine was co-detected in 37 (82.2%) GHB-confirmed cases. Reduced conscious state was indicated by first recorded Glasgow Coma Scale of ≤8 (n = 29, 64.4%) and observations of patients becoming, or being found, 'unresponsive' and 'unconscious' in various pre-hospital settings (n = 28, 62.2%). 'Agitated' and/or 'erratic' mental state and behavioural observations were recorded in 20 (44.4%) cases. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Analytically verified data from ED presentations with acute toxicity provides an objective information source on drug use trends and emerging public health threats. In our study, patients presenting to WA EDs with GHB intoxication were acutely unwell, often requiring intensive care treatment. The unexpectedly high proportion of female GHB intoxications and methylamphetamine co-ingestion warrants further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Smith
- Centre for Clinical Research in Emergency Medicine, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, Australia
- East Metropolitan Health Service, Perth, Australia
| | - Shaun Greene
- Emergency Department, Austin Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Victorian Poisons Information Centre, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Critical Care, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David McCutcheon
- Centre for Clinical Research in Emergency Medicine, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, Australia
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Emergency Department, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Australia
- Royal Perth Hospital Research Foundation, Perth, Australia
| | - Courtney Weber
- Centre for Clinical Research in Emergency Medicine, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, Australia
- East Metropolitan Health Service, Perth, Australia
| | - Ellie Kotkis
- Centre for Clinical Research in Emergency Medicine, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, Australia
- East Metropolitan Health Service, Perth, Australia
| | - Jessamine Soderstrom
- Centre for Clinical Research in Emergency Medicine, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, Australia
- East Metropolitan Health Service, Perth, Australia
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Emergency Department, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Australia
| | | | - Simon Lenton
- National Drug Research Institute and enAble Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Jodie Grigg
- National Drug Research Institute and enAble Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | | | - Nadine Ezard
- The National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Alcohol and Drug Service, St Vincent's Hospital Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- The National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- New South Wales Drug and Alcohol Clinical Research and Improvement Network, Sydney, Australia
| | - Daniel M Fatovich
- Centre for Clinical Research in Emergency Medicine, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, Australia
- East Metropolitan Health Service, Perth, Australia
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Emergency Department, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Australia
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Wolf CJH, Spoelder M, Beurmanjer H, Bulthuis R, Schellekens AFA, Homberg JR. Individual differences in GHB consumption in a new voluntary GHB self-administration model in outbred rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024; 241:613-625. [PMID: 38334790 PMCID: PMC10884067 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-024-06537-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The use of the recreational drug gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) has increased over the past decade, concomitantly leading to a higher incidence of GHB use disorder. Evidence-based treatment interventions are hardly available and cognitive effects of long-term GHB use remain elusive. In order to study the development of GUD and the causal effects of chronic GHB consumption, a GHB self-administration model is required. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Long Evans rats had access to GHB in their home cage according to a two-bottle choice procedure for 3 months. Intoxication and withdrawal symptoms were assessed using an automated sensor-based setup for longitudinal behavioral monitoring. Rats were trained in an operant environment according to a fixed ratio (FR) 1, 2, and 4 schedule of reinforcement. Addiction-like behaviors were assessed through progressive ratio-, non-reinforced-, and quinine-adulterated operant tests. In addition, the novel object recognition test and elevated plus maze test were performed before and after GHB self-administration to assess memory performance and anxiety-like behavior, respectively. KEY RESULTS All rats consumed pharmacologically relevant levels of GHB in their home cage, and their intake remained stable over a period of 3 months. No clear withdrawal symptoms were observed following abstinence. Responding under operant conditions was characterized by strong inter-individual differences, where only a subset of rats showed high motivation for GHB, habitual GHB-seeking, and/or continued responding for GHB despite an aversive taste. Male rats showed a reduction in long-term memory performance 3 months after home-cage GHB self-administration. Anxiety-like behavior was not affected by GHB self-administration. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS The GHB self-administration model was able to reflect individual susceptibility for addiction-like behavior. The reduction in long-term memory performance upon GHB self-administration calls for further research into the cognitive effects of chronic GHB use in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casper J H Wolf
- Donders Institute for Brain, Department of Psychiatry, Radboudumc, Cognition, and Behaviour, Reinier Postlaan 4, 6525 GC, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour, Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboudumc, 6525 EN, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), 6525 HR, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Marcia Spoelder
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Harmen Beurmanjer
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), 6525 HR, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, 6525 GD, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Novadic-Kentron Addiction Care, 5261 LX, Vught, The Netherlands
| | | | - Arnt F A Schellekens
- Donders Institute for Brain, Department of Psychiatry, Radboudumc, Cognition, and Behaviour, Reinier Postlaan 4, 6525 GC, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), 6525 HR, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Judith R Homberg
- Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour, Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboudumc, 6525 EN, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Zhang Q, Wei H, Lee A, Felmlee MA. Sex and Cross-Sex Testosterone Treatment Alters Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate Acid Toxicokinetics and Toxicodynamics in Rats. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:143. [PMID: 38276513 PMCID: PMC10821532 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16010143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Γ-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) is widely abused due to its sedative/hypnotic and euphoric effects. In recent years, GHB use has witnessed a notable rise within the LGBTQ+ community. GHB is a substrate of monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) and exhibits nonlinear toxicokinetics, characterized by saturable metabolism, absorption, and renal reabsorption. This study investigates the impact of exogenous testosterone administration on GHB toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics, exploring the potential of MCT1 inhibition as a strategy to counteract toxicity. Ovariectomized (OVX) females and castrated (CST) male Sprague Dawley rats were treated with testosterone or placebo for 21 days. GHB was administered at two doses (1000 mg/kg or 1500 mg/kg i.v.), and the MCT1 inhibitor AR-C 155858 (1 mg/kg i.v.) was administered 5 min after GHB (1500 mg/kg i.v.) administration. Plasma and urine were collected up to 8 h post-dose, and GHB concentrations were quantified via a validated LC/MS/MS assay. Sleep time (sedative/hypnotic effect) was utilized as the toxicodynamic endpoint. Testosterone treatment significantly affected GHB toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics. Testosterone-treated CST rats exhibited significantly lower renal clearance, higher AUC, and increased sedative effect, while testosterone-treated OVX rats demonstrated higher metabolic clearance. AR-C 155858 treatment led to an increase in GHB renal and total clearance together with an improvement in sedative/hypnotic effect. In conclusion, exogenous testosterone treatment induces significant alterations in GHB toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics, and MCT inhibition can serve as a potential therapeutic strategy for GHB overdose in both cisgender and transgender male populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Medicinal Chemistry, Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA 95211, USA; (Q.Z.)
| | - Hao Wei
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Medicinal Chemistry, Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA 95211, USA; (Q.Z.)
- QPS LLC, Newark, DE 19711, USA
| | - Annie Lee
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Medicinal Chemistry, Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA 95211, USA; (Q.Z.)
| | - Melanie A. Felmlee
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Medicinal Chemistry, Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA 95211, USA; (Q.Z.)
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Freestone J, Ezard N, Bourne A, Brett J, Roberts DM, Hammoud M, Nedanoski A, Prestage G, Siefried KJ. Understandings, attitudes, practices and responses to GHB overdose among GHB consumers. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:121. [PMID: 37660058 PMCID: PMC10475182 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00857-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is used at disproportionately high rates within sexuality and gender diverse communities and carries a high risk of overdose. GHB overdose can result in death. Internationally, recent increases in GHB overdoses have been observed. Coronial reviews of GHB-related death highlight the pivotal roles that bystanders to GHB overdose play in preventing fatality. No research has examined, in detail, how bystanders respond to GHB overdose. This qualitative study was conducted among people who use GHB and explored how they responded upon witnessing a GHB overdose experienced by someone else. METHODS Interviews were conducted with 31 sexuality and gender diverse Australian residents reporting three or more occasions of GHB use in the previous 12 months. Participants were asked questions about witnessed GHB overdose, their actions and decision-making processes throughout overdose. Data were analysed thematically. RESULTS Participants described witnessing GHB overdose, commonly in private settings involving sexualized GHB use. Variable definitions of GHB overdose were reported, ranging from GHB-induced symptoms of distress to comatose intoxication. Drastic actions to keep someone alert and responsive post-GHB ingestion were reported; these included the administration of stimulant substances and citrus. Decisions to call or not call for emergency medical services (EMS) were influenced by many circumstantial variables. In most instances, an EMS call was resisted and response practices deviated from established first aid protocols. CONCLUSIONS GHB overdose prevention and response training programs targeting people who use GHB are urgently required. These education interventions ought to address inaccuracies that inform street remedies for GHB overdose, teach people how to safely check breathing and response, promote basic first aid principles and address barriers to contacting EMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Freestone
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales Sydney, Wallace Wurth Building, High St, Kensington, NSW, 2052, Australia.
- ACON, 414 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills, NSW, 2010, Australia.
| | - Nadine Ezard
- National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs, c/o the University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
- Alcohol and Drug Service, St Vincent's Hospital Sydney, Darlinghurst, 2010, Australia
- The National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre (NDARC), The University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
| | - Adam Bourne
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales Sydney, Wallace Wurth Building, High St, Kensington, NSW, 2052, Australia
- Australian Research Centre for Sex Health and Society, La Trobe University, Building NR6., Bundoora, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Jonathan Brett
- Alcohol and Drug Service, St Vincent's Hospital Sydney, Darlinghurst, 2010, Australia
| | - Darren M Roberts
- Edith Collins Centre, Drug Health Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, 2050, Australia
| | - Mohamed Hammoud
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales Sydney, Wallace Wurth Building, High St, Kensington, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | | | - Garrett Prestage
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales Sydney, Wallace Wurth Building, High St, Kensington, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Krista J Siefried
- National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs, c/o the University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
- Alcohol and Drug Service, St Vincent's Hospital Sydney, Darlinghurst, 2010, Australia
- The National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre (NDARC), The University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
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Palamar JJ. Prevalence and Correlates of GHB Use among Adults in the United States. J Psychoactive Drugs 2023; 55:268-273. [PMID: 35616605 PMCID: PMC9699895 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2022.2081948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) was a somewhat prevalent club drug two decades ago, but research has been lacking regarding the current epidemiology of use. In this study, prevalence and correlates of past-year GHB use were estimated based on noninstitutionalized US adults participating in the 2015-2020 National Survey of Drug Use and Health (N= 241,675). An estimated 0.05% (95% CI: 0.04-0.07) of adults in the US have used GHB in the past year. Compared to those age 18-25, those age 35-49 were at increased odds for use (aOR = 2.28, 95% CI: 1.02-5.10), and compared to heterosexual men, gay men in particular were at high odds for use (aOR = 27.82, 95% CI: 11.09-69.80). Those identifying as bisexual men (aOR = 3.39, 95% CI: 1.17-9.82) and lesbian/bisexual women (aOR = 3.37, 95% CI: 1.44-7.90) were also at high odds for use. Despite all drugs examined being significant correlates of use in bivariable models (ps < .001), only past-year use of methamphetamine (aOR = 15.68, 95% CI: 7.40-33.25), ketamine (aOR = 8.52, 95% CI: 2.67-27.20), and ecstasy (aOR = 4.41, 95% CI: 1.80-10.75) was associated with increased odds of use in the multivariable model. Results suggest that GHB use is currently rare, but gay men and people who use other party drugs are at particularly high risk for use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph J Palamar
- New York University Grossman School of Medicine, Department of Population Health, New York, NY USA
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10
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Dufayet L, Bargel S, Bonnet A, Boukerma AK, Chevallier C, Evrard M, Guillotin S, Loeuillet E, Paradis C, Pouget AM, Reynoard J, Vaucel JA. Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), 1,4-butanediol (1,4BD), and gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) intoxication: A state-of-the-art review. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2023; 142:105435. [PMID: 37343712 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2023.105435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
γ-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is synthesized endogenously from γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) or exogenously from 1,4-butanediol (butane-1,4-diol; 1,4-BD) or γ-butyrolactone (GBL). GBL, and 1,4-BD are rapidly converted to GHB. The gastric absorption time, volume of distribution, and half-life of GHB are between 5 and 45 min, 0.49 ± 0.9 L/kg, and between 20 and 60 min, respectively. GHB and its analogues have a dose-dependent effect on the activation of GHB receptor, GABA-B, and GABA localized to the central nervous system. After ingestion, most patients present transient neurological disorders (lethal dose: 60 mg/kg). Chronic GHB consumption is associated with disorders of use and a withdrawal syndrome when the consumption is discontinued. GHB, GBL, and 1,4-BD are classified as narcotics but only the use of GHB is controlled internationally. They are used for drug facilitated (sexual) assault, recreational purposes, slamsex, and chemsex. To confirm an exogenous intake or administration of GHB, GBL, or 1-4-BD, the pre-analytical conservation is crucial. The antemortem cutoff doses for detection are 5 and 5-15 mg/L, with detection windows of 6 and 10 h in the blood and urine, respectively Control of GHB is essential to limit the number of users, abuse, associated risks, and death related to their consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurene Dufayet
- Unité Médico-judiciaire, Hôtel-Dieu, APHP, 75001, Paris, France; Centre Antipoison de Paris - Fédération de Toxicologie (FeTox), Hôpital Fernand-Widal, APHP, 75010, Paris, France; INSERM, UMRS-1144, Faculté de Pharmacie, 75006, Paris, France; UFR de Médecine, Université de Paris, 75010, Paris, France.
| | - Sophie Bargel
- Section Toxicologie - Sécurité Routière, Laboratoire de Police Scientifique de Lille, SNPS, France
| | - Anastasia Bonnet
- Centre Antipoison de Toulouse, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | | | | | - Marion Evrard
- Centre Antipoison de Nancy, CHRU de Nancy, Nancy, France
| | - Sophie Guillotin
- Centre Antipoison de Toulouse, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Camille Paradis
- Centre Antipoison de Bordeaux CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Julien Reynoard
- Pharmacologie Clinique CAP-TV, APHM, Hôpitaux Sud, Marseille, France
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Wolf CJH, Venselaar H, Spoelder M, Beurmanjer H, Schellekens AFA, Homberg JR. An Overview of the Putative Structural and Functional Properties of the GHBh1 Receptor through a Bioinformatics Approach. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13040926. [PMID: 37109455 PMCID: PMC10142108 DOI: 10.3390/life13040926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The neurotransmitter γ-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) is suggested to be involved in neuronal energy homeostasis processes, but the substance is also used as a recreational drug and as a prescription medication for narcolepsy. GHB has several high-affinity targets in the brain, commonly generalized as the GHB receptor. However, little is known about the structural and functional properties of GHB receptor subtypes. This opinion article discusses the literature on the putative structural and functional properties of the GHBh1 receptor subtype. GHBh1 contains 11 transmembrane helices and at least one intracellular intrinsically disordered region (IDR). Additionally, GHBh1 shows a 100% overlap in amino acid sequence with the Riboflavin (vitamin B2) transporter, which opens the possibility of a possible dual-function (transceptor) structure. Riboflavin and GHB also share specific neuroprotective properties. Further research into the GHBh1 receptor subtype may pave the way for future therapeutic possibilities for GHB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casper J. H. Wolf
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboudumc, 6525 GC Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, 6525 EN Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), 6525 HR Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Hanka Venselaar
- Center for Molecular and Biomolecular Informatics, Radboudumc, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marcia Spoelder
- Department of Primary and Community Care, Radboudumc, 6525 GC Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Harmen Beurmanjer
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), 6525 HR Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, 6525 GD Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Novadic-Kentron Addiction Care, 5261 LX Vught, The Netherlands
| | - Arnt F. A. Schellekens
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboudumc, 6525 GC Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), 6525 HR Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Judith R. Homberg
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, 6525 EN Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Ogeil RP, Faulkner A, Beard N, Killian JJ, Arunogiri S, Phan V, Wilson J, Smith K, Lubman DI, Scott D. Adverse outcomes of GHB use: Analysis of ambulance attendances in metropolitan and regional Victoria. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023; 111:103932. [PMID: 36527909 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) use and attributable harms have been increasing in Australia, however changes over time, including the impact of COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions on harms requiring an ambulance attendance, are unknown. This study utilised a novel population-based surveillance system to identify the types of GHB-related harms between January 2018 and 31 December 2021 in Victoria, Australia. METHODS A cross-sectional, retrospective analysis of all GHB-related ambulance attendances between January 2018 and 31 December 2021 in Victoria, Australia was undertaken. Paramedic clinical notes and Glasgow Coma Scale scores were used to assess conscious state. Event codes were classified using dispatch information available in the database. Crude rates (per 100,000 population) and descriptive analyses were calculated for metropolitan and regional settings. Adjusted Odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals [95% CI] were used to assess the relationship between GCS severity and polysubstance combinations with GHB. RESULTS There were 6,836 ambulance attendances for GHB recorded during the study period. A statistically significant increase in GHB-related attendance numbers was observed State-wide in 2019 (n = 1,402, p<0.001) and 2020 (n = 2,622, p<0.001), when comparing year on year attendances. While both numbers and rates (per 100,000 population) of GHB-related attendances were significantly lower in regional areas, significant increases were evident in both metropolitan and regional areas in 2019 and 2020 (both p<0.001). Attendances involving GHB and alcohol had higher odds of a severe GCS score (aOR:1.25; 95%: 1.04-1.49; p<0.019). A high proportion of GHB-attendances involved harms of significant concern including: overdose (56%) and a loss of, or altered state of consciousness (45%). CONCLUSIONS We observed increases in GHB-related ambulance attendances over time in both metropolitan and regional areas, placing a significant burden on ambulance services. Our study demonstrates the value of using ambulance surveillance to obtain representative data on acute GHB-related harms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowan P Ogeil
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Australia; Eastern Health Clinical School and Monash Addiction Research Centre, Monash University, Australia.
| | | | | | - Jessica J Killian
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Australia; Eastern Health Clinical School and Monash Addiction Research Centre, Monash University, Australia
| | - Shalini Arunogiri
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Australia; Eastern Health Clinical School and Monash Addiction Research Centre, Monash University, Australia
| | - Vicky Phan
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Australia; Eastern Health Clinical School and Monash Addiction Research Centre, Monash University, Australia
| | | | - Karen Smith
- Department of Paramedicine and Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Australia; Research and Evaluation, Ambulance Victoria, Blackburn North, Australia
| | - Dan I Lubman
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Australia; Eastern Health Clinical School and Monash Addiction Research Centre, Monash University, Australia
| | - Debbie Scott
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Australia; Eastern Health Clinical School and Monash Addiction Research Centre, Monash University, Australia
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Inpatient GHB withdrawal management in an inner-city hospital in Sydney, Australia: a retrospective medical record review. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2023; 240:127-135. [PMID: 36508055 PMCID: PMC9816228 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-022-06283-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Regular consumption of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) may result in a dependence syndrome that can lead to withdrawal symptoms. There are limited data on medications to manage GHB withdrawal. OBJECTIVES To examine characteristics associated with delirium and discharge against medical advice (DAMA), in the context of implementing a GHB withdrawal management protocol at an inner-city hospital in 2020. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed records (01 January 2017-31 March 2021), and included admissions that were ≥ 18 years of age, admitted for GHB withdrawal, and with documented recent GHB use. Admissions were assessed for demographics, medications administered, features of delirium, ICU admission, and DAMA. Exploratory analyses were conducted to examine factors associated (p < 0.2) with features of delirium and DAMA. RESULTS We identified 135 admissions amongst 91 patients. Medications administered included diazepam (133 admissions, 98.5%), antipsychotics (olanzapine [70 admissions, 51.9%]), baclofen (114 admissions, 84%), and phenobarbital (8 admissions, 5.9%). Features of delirium were diagnosed in 21 (16%) admissions. Delirium was associated with higher daily GHB consumption prior to admission, while duration of GHB use, time from presentation to first dose of diazepam, and concomitant methamphetamine use were inversely associated with delirium. DAMA occurred amongst 41 (30%) admissions, and was associated with a longer time from presentation to first dose of baclofen, while being female and receiving a loading dose of diazepam were inversely associated. CONCLUSIONS This study adds to the literature in support of the safety and feasibility of diazepam and baclofen for the management of GHB withdrawal. Prospective, randomised trials are required.
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Acide γ-Hydroxybutyrique (GHB), γ-butyrolactone (GBL) et 1,4-butanediol (1,4-BD) : revue de la littérature des aspects pharmacologiques, cliniques, analytiques et médico-légaux. TOXICOLOGIE ANALYTIQUE ET CLINIQUE 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxac.2022.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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15
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Ngo Q, Plante DT. An Update on the Misuse and Abuse Potential of Pharmacological Treatments for Central Disorders of Hypersomnolence. CURRENT SLEEP MEDICINE REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40675-022-00227-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Playing at the edges, navigating sexual boundaries, and narrating sexual distress; Practices and perspectives of sexuality and gender diverse people who use GHB. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 108:103811. [PMID: 35939948 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research addressing sexualised use of GHB to date has largely focussed on gay and bisexual men's GHB use in the context of chemsex, this research has highlighted risks and experiences associated with sexual violence. No studies have included people of diverse sexualities and genders and documented reported practices to ensure mutually gratifying and consensual sex in the context of sexualised drug use (SDU). METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 31 people from sexuality and gender diverse communities living in Australia who reported three or more occasions of GHB use in the previous 12 months. Participants were asked about their use of GHB for sex, their experiences of GHB sex and their approaches to negotiating sexual boundaries. Data were analysed thematically. RESULTS Most participants valued the sexual possibilities enabled by disinhibitory components of GHB and were cognisant of respecting other's sexual boundaries in the context of GHB sex. Participants reported strategies to ensure communication prior to and throughout GHB sex. However, several participants narrated experiences of GHB sex that they felt were distressing and, in some circumstances, sexually violent. In most instances participant's resisted terminology of sexual violence or non-consent as descriptors of their experience and none reported accessing sexual violence services. CONCLUSION Positive strategies to facilitate sexual communication prior to and throughout GHB sex should be reflected in health promotion and service level responses to promote affirmative and continuous consent among people who use GHB for sex. Education initiatives to help people engaged in SDU to recognise and respond to sexual violence if it occurs ought to be prioritised.
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Freestone J, Prestage G, Bourne A, Ezard N, Race K, Nedanoski A, Murray J, Siefried KJ. Controlling for pleasure and risk: The experiences of sexuality and gender diverse people who use GHB. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 105:103747. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Zeng T, Li S, Wu L, Feng Z, Fan X, Yuan J, Wang X, Meng J, Ma H, Zeng G, Kang C, Yang J. A Comparison Study of Impulsiveness, Cognitive Function, and P300 Components Between Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate and Heroin-Addicted Patients: Preliminary Findings. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:835922. [PMID: 35529779 PMCID: PMC9067320 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.835922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate and compare impulsiveness, negative emotion, cognitive function, and P300 components among gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB)-addicted patients, heroin-dependent patients, and methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) subjects. Methods A total of 48 men including 17 GHB addicts, 16 heroin addicts, 15 MMT subjects, and 15 male mentally healthy controls (HC) were recruited. All subjects were evaluated for symptoms of depression, anxiety, impulsiveness, and cognitive function through the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7), the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale version II (BIS-II), the Beijing version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (BJ-MoCA), the behavioral test (response time), and event-related potential P300 detection. Results (1) The mean scores of BIS-II in the GHB addiction group, heroin dependence group, and MMT group were significantly higher than those of the HC group (F = 30.339, P = 0.000). (2) The total scores of BJ-MOCA in GHB addiction group was the worst among the four groups, followed by heroin addiction, MMT group and HC group (F = 27.880, P = 0.000). (3) The response time in the GHB addiction group was the longest among the four groups, followed by the heroin addiction, MMT, and HC groups (F = 150.499, P = 0.000). (4) The amplitude and latency of P300 in GHB addiction subjects were significantly lower and longer than those of the MMT group and the HC group. (5) For the three types of addiction, the P300 amplitudes at Fz, Cz, Pz, T5, and T6 were negatively correlated with the scores of GAD-7, PHQ-9, and BIS-II; the P300 latencies were positively correlated with the response time and negatively correlated with the scores of the BJ-MoCA. Conclusion People with an addiction were likely to have increased impulsiveness. The cognitive function of the GHB and heroin-addicted subjects, including the heroin detoxification and the MMT groups, was severely impaired, especially for the GHB-addicted patients. The impairment manifested as abnormalities of BJ-MoCA, response time, and P300 components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Zeng
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Shida Li
- The Guangzhou Baiyun Psychological Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Wu
- Department of Substance Use Disorders, The Psychiatry Hospital of Yunnan, Kunming, China
| | - Zuxing Feng
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Xinxin Fan
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Jing Yuan
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Junyu Meng
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Huan Ma
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Guanyong Zeng
- The Guangzhou Baiyun Psychological Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Guanyong Zeng
| | - Chuanyuan Kang
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai, China
- Chuanyuan Kang
| | - Jianzhong Yang
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Jianzhong Yang
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Tay E, Lo WKW, Murnion B. Current Insights on the Impact of Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) Abuse. Subst Abuse Rehabil 2022; 13:13-23. [PMID: 35173515 PMCID: PMC8843350 DOI: 10.2147/sar.s315720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Emma Tay
- Drug Health Services, Western Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Wing Kwan Winky Lo
- Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Bridin Murnion
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Correspondence: Bridin Murnion, Drug Health Services, Western Sydney Local Health District, 4A Fleet Street, North Parramatta, NSW, 2151, Australia, Tel +61 2 9840 3888, Fax +61 2 9840 3927, Email
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Giorgetti A, Busardò FP, Giorgetti R. Toxicological Characterization of GHB as a Performance-Enhancing Drug. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:846983. [PMID: 35509886 PMCID: PMC9058118 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.846983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) are represented by several compounds used to ameliorate the image, the appearance, or an athletic or non-athletic performance. Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is an endogenous molecule first used as anesthetic and then marketed as a nutritional supplement with a wide diffusion in the bodybuilding community. The aim of the present work is to provide a toxicological characterization of the use of GHB as a PED, including the scientific basis for its use, the patterns of use/abuse, and the health risks arising from its consumption in this peculiar recreative setting. A literature search was performed on multiple databases including experimental studies on humans and animals as well as epidemiological reports and forensic case reports/series. Experimental studies demonstrated that the use of GHB as a PED is motivated by the release of growth hormone and the induction of sleep. However, the panel of desired performance-related effects was much wider in real cases and epidemiological studies. Even though the use of GHB among bodybuilders has decreased, its use to enhance some kind of performance, particularly sexual ones or social-communicative ones, as well as means to increase mood and perceived energy, is still common.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Giorgetti
- Unit of Legal Medicine, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Paolo Busardò
- Department of Excellence of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, "Politecnica delle Marche" University of Ancona, Ancona, Italy
| | - Raffaele Giorgetti
- Department of Excellence of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, "Politecnica delle Marche" University of Ancona, Ancona, Italy
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