[Withdrawal syndrome after abuse of GHB (Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate) and its physiological precursors - its relevance for child and adolescent psychiatrists]

Pharmacological Treatment in γ-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and γ-Butyrolactone (GBL) Dependence: Detoxification and Relapse Prevention

The misuse of γ-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) for recreational purposes has resulted in an increase in GHB-related problems such as intoxications, dependence and withdrawal in several countries in Europe, Australia and the US over the last decade. However, prevalence rates of misuse of GHB and its precursor, γ-butyrolactone (GBL), are still relatively low. In this qualitative review paper, after a short introduction on the pharmacology of GHB/GBL, followed by a summary of the epidemiology of GHB abuse, an overview of GHB dependence syndrome and GHB/GBL withdrawal syndrome is provided. Finally, the existing literature on management of GHB detoxification, both planned and unplanned, as well as the available management of GHB withdrawal syndrome, is summarized. Although no systematic studies on detoxification and management of withdrawal have been performed to date, general recommendations are given on pharmacological treatment and preferred treatment setting.

Gamma-hydroxybutyrate detoxification by titration and tapering

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effectiveness and safety of a new detoxification procedure in γ-hydroxybutyrate (GHB)-dependent patients. GHB is an endogenous inhibitory neurotransmitter and anesthetic agent that is being abused as a club drug. In many GHB-dependent patients a severe withdrawal syndrome develops that does not respond to treatment with high dosages of benzodiazepines and often requires an admission to an intensive care unit.

METHODS

Based on the knowledge of detoxification procedures in opioid and benzodiazepine dependence, we developed a titration and tapering procedure. A consecutive series of 23 GHB-dependent inpatients were transferred from illegal GHB (mostly self-produced) in various concentrations to pharmaceutical GHB. They were given initial doses that resulted in a balance between sedation and withdrawal symptoms. After this titration period, patients were placed on a 1-week taper.

RESULTS

We have found that after titration the patients experienced a low level of withdrawal symptoms. During tapering these symptoms decreased significantly and no patient developed a delirium or a psychosis. None of the patients had to be transferred to a medium or intensive care unit.

CONCLUSIONS

This detoxification procedure proved to be safe and convenient in patients with moderate to severe GHB dependence.

Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) dependence and withdrawal

AIM

To describe morbidity associated with gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) dependence, and outcomes of withdrawal.

DESIGN

Case series.

SETTING

Specialist out-patient clinic and affiliated in-patient detoxification unit. Patients with home support were offered the option of out-patient withdrawal management, based on high-dose diazepam and baclofen, titrated against withdrawal severity in an initial session lasting approximately 4 hours. Patients were then reviewed daily during the first 3 days of treatment, offered weekly follow-up for 4 weeks, and telephoned 2-4 months later.

PARTICIPANTS

People dependent on GBL seeking detoxification.

MEASUREMENTS

Drug history and social functioning were obtained by self-report in clinical interviews with a single clinician. Treatment completion, outcomes and adverse events associated with withdrawal are reported.

FINDINGS

Patients reported impaired social functioning associated with GBL dependence and difficulty in accessing treatment. Nineteen patients commenced detoxification; 17 initially declined admission and were treated as out-patients. Mean diazepam dose in the first 24 hours was 75 mg (range 40-110 mg). Sixteen patients completed withdrawal, although several had lapses to GBL use during treatment. One patient developed delirium and required transfer to the in-patient detoxification unit. Most patients had persisting insomnia, anxiety and depression for weeks after withdrawal.

CONCLUSIONS

GBL withdrawal can be managed in ambulatory settings, but needs to be backed up with seamless access to in-patient treatment if required.