1
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Predicting the Number of GHB-Related Toxicologic Admissions Using Google Trends Data. Int J Ment Health Addict 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-021-00706-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
In the era of novel psychoactive substances (NPS), the internet became a relevant source of information and purchase for those who consume psychoactive drugs. Parallelly, a growing body of research aim to utilize web search metrics (most commonly by relying on Google Trends data) in the prediction of substance use-related trends, including epidemiological forecasting. The main goal of the current study was to assess the utility of web search queries in the prediction of Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB)-related toxicologic admissions in Hungary by performing additive decomposition of time series to identify trend and seasonal components. Monthly data identified GHB-related search volume representing nationwide web interest towards this substance was found to be a significant covariate of admission rates; the seasonal component showed two peaks in the admission rates: one in December/January and another one in May, whereas more admissions on the weekends were observed as compared to weekday data in Hungary. By taking into account the subtle effect sizes of this study, these results suggest that Google Trends data may be useful in forecasting toxicologic admissions on a monthly level, yet a number of limitations should be considered when interpreting these associations. Web search metrics can therefore be used for early warning purposes in the field of toxicology as well. An external validation approach is also suggested by the authors.
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Dijkstra BAG, Beurmanjer H, Goudriaan AE, Schellekens AFA, Joosten EAG. Unity in diversity: A systematic review on the GHB using population. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 94:103230. [PMID: 33892279 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over the past decades gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) has emerged as a popular drug with high potential of (ab)use due to its euphoric and relaxing effects. An overview of different populations using GHB is urgently needed, since this would enable development of adequate prevention and treatment policies to diminish the risks associated with GHB use. We systematically reviewed literature on different GHB using populations, comparing demographic characteristics, GHB use patterns, psychosocial aspects and psychiatric comorbidity. METHODS We conducted a systematic review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines using Rayyan software. Original studies published from January 1997 up to October 2019 on GHB use were included. Out of 80 full-text articles, 60 articles of 51 unique studies were included. Most studies included people using GHB 1) presenting at emergency departments (n = 22), 2) recruited from the general population (n = 11), or 3) presenting at addiction care (n = 8). RESULTS Three main sub-populations of people using GHB are described in the literature: people using GHB recreationally without adverse effects; people using GHB recreationally with adverse effects, and people with dependence on GHB. These groups show considerable overlap in gender, age range, and comorbid substance use, as well as amount of GHB use per occasion. Differences are related to frequency and function of GHB use, the number of comas experienced, as well as work status, and psychiatric comorbidity. CONCLUSION Policy interventions should aim at preventing the transition from recreational substance use to GHB use, as most users are experienced recreational substance users prior to starting GHB use. When people use GHB regularly, interventions should aim at reducing the level of GHB use and preventing GHB use-related harm. Longitudinal studies and population-based probability sampling are required for more insight in the dynamics of GHB use in different sub-populations, and the transition from one group to the other, ultimately leading to dependence on GHB.
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Affiliation(s)
- B A G Dijkstra
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioner in Addiction (NISPA), Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Radboudumc, Department of Psychiatry, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Novadic-Kentron Addiction Treatment Center, Vught, the Netherlands.
| | - H Beurmanjer
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioner in Addiction (NISPA), Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Novadic-Kentron Addiction Treatment Center, Vught, the Netherlands
| | - A E Goudriaan
- Jellinek and Arkin, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam University Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - A F A Schellekens
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioner in Addiction (NISPA), Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Radboudumc, Department of Psychiatry, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - E A G Joosten
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioner in Addiction (NISPA), Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Radboudumc, Department of Psychiatry, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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3
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Vaiano F, Ronchi FU. Evidence of Natural GHB Presence in Energy Drinks: Caution in Data Interpretation in Suspected DFSA Cases. J Anal Toxicol 2020; 44:811-817. [DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkaa025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 01/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), usually reported as rape drug in drug-facilitated sexual assaults (DFSA), is an endogenous substance in human body and is also found in many beverages. This may lead to data misinterpretation in forensic cases. Herein, we aimed to collect evidence about natural GHB presence in 13 energy drinks (ED). After a liquid–liquid extraction with acidic ethyl acetate, samples were derivatized with BSTFA 1% TMCS. Analyses were carried out by a GC–MS system in SIM mode (GHB, 233, 234, 143 and 147 m/z; GHB-d6, 239, 240, 120 and 206 m/z). GHB was present in all the samples at very low concentrations ranging from 98 to 197 ng/mL. Thus, GHB presence in ED is not exclusively related to exogenous addition. Since the GHB levels are far lower than the minimum active dose (i.e., 0.5 g), it is not expected to induce any effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Vaiano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Umani Ronchi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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4
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Bulut H. A New Psychoactive Substance, Gamma Hydroxybutyrate (GHB): A Case Report. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 56:229-231. [PMID: 31523153 DOI: 10.29399/npa.23198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Gamma Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is a central nervous system depressant effecting GABA-B receptors. GHB is taken along with other psychoactive substances like alcohol, cocaine, ecstasy, and amphetamines especially during parties. Due to the fact that it has been linked to sexual assault, GHB has drawn attention in recent years. This substance is often taken by youngsters and results in euphoric states of mind, signs of relief, easiness in communication, increases in sexual appetite, and experiences of different states of mind. Dizziness, hypotension, bradycardia, nauseation, and vomiting are typical toxication symptoms of GHB. Also, epileptic seizures, respirotary depression, and deaths have been reported as a result of taking GHB. It is widely known that the use of GHB in our country has increased gradually. This case report is important as it summarizes the anamnesis, penetration, and clinical symptoms of GHB. In order to prevent the use of GHB, it would be appropriate to develop psycho-education methodologies, establish legislative regulations, and include GHB tests in substance screening analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hüseyin Bulut
- SBÜ Kanuni Sultan Süleyman Training and Research Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, İstanbul, Turkey
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5
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Van Elsué N, Crunelle CL, Verbrugge CA, van Baarle K, Rodrigues A, Neels H, Yegles M. Gammahydroxybutyrate in hair of non-GHB and repeated GHB users: A new and optimized method. Forensic Sci Int 2018; 291:193-198. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Revised: 08/19/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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6
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Eischens P, Atherton WL. Psychedelic therapy as a complementary treatment approach for alcohol use disorders. JOURNAL OF PSYCHEDELIC STUDIES 2018. [DOI: 10.1556/2054.2018.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Eischens
- Department of Addictions & Rehabilitation Studies, East Carolina University, Health Sciences Building, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - William Leigh Atherton
- Department of Addictions & Rehabilitation Studies, East Carolina University, Health Sciences Building, Greenville, NC, USA
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7
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Tucci M, Stocchero G, Pertile R, Favretto D. Detection of GHB at low levels in non-spiked beverages using solid phase extraction and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. TOXICOLOGIE ANALYTIQUE ET CLINIQUE 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxac.2016.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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8
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Kamal RM, van Noorden MS, Wannet W, Beurmanjer H, Dijkstra BAG, Schellekens A. Pharmacological Treatment in γ-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and γ-Butyrolactone (GBL) Dependence: Detoxification and Relapse Prevention. CNS Drugs 2017; 31:51-64. [PMID: 28004314 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-016-0402-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rama M Kamal
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Toernooiveld 5, 6525 ED, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Novadic-Kentron Addiction Care Network, Hogedwarsstraat 3, PO Box 243, 5260 AE, Vught, The Netherlands.
| | | | - Wim Wannet
- Scientific Research Committee IrisZorg, Kronenburgsingel 545, 6831 GM, Arnhem, The Netherlands
| | - Harmen Beurmanjer
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Toernooiveld 5, 6525 ED, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Novadic-Kentron Addiction Care Network, Hogedwarsstraat 3, PO Box 243, 5260 AE, Vught, The Netherlands
| | - Boukje A G Dijkstra
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Toernooiveld 5, 6525 ED, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Arnt Schellekens
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Toernooiveld 5, 6525 ED, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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9
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Kamal RM, Dijkstra BAG, de Weert-van Oene GH, van Duren JAM, de Jong CAJ. Psychiatric comorbidity, psychological distress, and quality of life in gamma-hydroxybutyrate-dependent patients. J Addict Dis 2016; 36:72-79. [DOI: 10.1080/10550887.2016.1214000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rama M. Kamal
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Novadic-Kentron Addiction Care Network, Vught, The Netherlands
| | - Boukje A. G. Dijkstra
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Gerdien H. de Weert-van Oene
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Victas, Centre for Addiction Care, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Josja A. M. van Duren
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis A. J. de Jong
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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10
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The Effect of Co-occurring Substance Use on Gamma-hydroxybutyric Acid Withdrawal Syndrome. J Addict Med 2016; 10:229-35. [DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000000214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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11
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Maitre M, Klein C, Mensah-Nyagan AG. Mechanisms for the Specific Properties of γ-Hydroxybutyrate in Brain. Med Res Rev 2016; 36:363-88. [PMID: 26739481 DOI: 10.1002/med.21382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2015] [Revised: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 11/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
γ-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is both a natural brain compound with neuromodulatory properties at central GABAergic synapses (micromolar concentration range) and also a drug (Xyrem(R) ) clinically used for the treatment of various neurological symptoms (millimolar dose range). However, this drug has abuse potential and can be addictive for some patients. Here, we review the basic mechanistic role of endogenous GHB in brain as well as the properties and mechanisms of action for therapeutic clinical doses of exogenous GHB. Several hypotheses are discussed with a preference for a molecular mechanism that conciliates most of the findings available. This conciliatory model may help for the design of GHB-like drugs active at lower doses and devoid of major side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel Maitre
- Biopathologie de la Myéline, Neuroprotection et Stratégies Thérapeutiques, INSERM U1119, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Université de Strasbourg, Bâtiment 3 de la Faculté de Médecine, 11 rue Humann, 67000, Strasbourg, France
| | - Christian Klein
- Biopathologie de la Myéline, Neuroprotection et Stratégies Thérapeutiques, INSERM U1119, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Université de Strasbourg, Bâtiment 3 de la Faculté de Médecine, 11 rue Humann, 67000, Strasbourg, France
| | - Ayikoe G Mensah-Nyagan
- Biopathologie de la Myéline, Neuroprotection et Stratégies Thérapeutiques, INSERM U1119, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Université de Strasbourg, Bâtiment 3 de la Faculté de Médecine, 11 rue Humann, 67000, Strasbourg, France
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12
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Kapitány-Fövény M, Mervó B, Corazza O, Kökönyei G, Farkas J, Urbán R, Zacher G, Demetrovics Z. Enhancing sexual desire and experience: an investigation of the sexual correlates of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) use. Hum Psychopharmacol 2015. [PMID: 26216563 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Various studies have dealt with gamma-hydroxybutyrate's (GHB) potential role in sexual assaults, while the sexual correlates of intentional recreational GHB use have not well been highlighted. Our study aims to explore GHB's sexual effects, the patterns of choice of sexual partners, the frequency of experienced blackouts, and endured sexual or acquisitory crimes as a result of GHB use. METHODS Sixty recreational GHB users filled out a questionnaire on experienced subjective, somatic, and sexual effects of GHB, the frequency of blackouts due to their GHB use, and items on their sexual experiences in relation to GHB use. RESULTS Of the sample, 25.9% reported increased sexual arousal as well as more intense attraction towards their sexual partners and increased sexual openness when using GHB; 34.8% had sexual intercourse with strangers, or with others, but not with their partners when using GHB; and 8.6% were victims of acquisitory crimes, whereas 3.4% were victims of a sexual assault. Furthermore, 24.6% typically experienced blackouts when using GHB. CONCLUSION Gamma-hydroxybutyrate seems to be a potential substitute for both stimulant and depressant substances. Increased sexual desire and disinhibition may lead to a more frequent and potentially more riskful sexual activity. Experienced blackouts need to be considered as risk factors for suffering sexual or acquisitory crimes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Máté Kapitány-Fövény
- Institute of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.,Doctoral School of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.,Nyírő Gyula Hospital Drug Outpatient and Prevention Center, Budapest, Hungary.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Barbara Mervó
- Institute of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.,Doctoral School of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ornella Corazza
- School of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK
| | - Gyöngyi Kökönyei
- Institute of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Judit Farkas
- Institute of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.,Doctoral School of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.,Nyírő Gyula Hospital Drug Outpatient and Prevention Center, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Róbert Urbán
- Institute of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gábor Zacher
- Emergency Ward, Military Hospital State Health Centre, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Demetrovics
- Institute of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
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13
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Baclofen as relapse prevention in the treatment of gamma-hydroxybutyrate dependence: a case series. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2015; 35:313-8. [PMID: 25900349 DOI: 10.1097/jcp.0000000000000315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In the last decade, gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) abuse and dependence have increased. It has been reported that GHB dependence has a high rate of relapse, serious complications of intoxication, and a potentially life-threatening withdrawal syndrome. Nevertheless, in clinical practice, there is no known medical treatment to support GHB relapse prevention. We describe a case series of patients who were supported through an off-label treatment with baclofen to avoid a relapse into GHB abuse, for a period of 12 weeks. Nine of 11 patients did not relapse while taking a dose ranging from 30 to 60 mg per day, one patient relapsed after 5 weeks, and one stopped after 7 weeks. Baclofen was well tolerated; patients reported mild side effects such as fatigue, nausea, dry mouth, excessive sweating, and depressive feelings. Although systematic evidence is still lacking, our practice-based experience suggests that treatment with baclofen to assist abstinence might be effective in patients with GHB dependence. Further systematic controlled studies are necessary to establish the exact efficacy and safety of baclofen as relapse prevention for GHB-dependent patients.
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14
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Kamal RM, Schellekens A, De Jong CAJ, Dijkstra BAG. Baclofen as relapse prevention in the treatment of Gamma- Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) dependence: an open label study. BMC Psychiatry 2015; 15:91. [PMID: 25927622 PMCID: PMC4424532 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-015-0471-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 04/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND GHB dependence is a growing health problem in several western countries, especially the Netherlands. Attempts to stop using GHB are often followed by relapse shortly after successful detoxification. Craving for GHB use and co-morbid psychiatric symptom levels are thought to be the major factors contributing to the high relapse rates. Given its pharmacological profile, baclofen might prove an effective anti-craving agent for patients with GHB dependence. The aim of the current study is to assess the potential of baclofen as an anti-craving agent relapse prevention intervention in GHB dependent patients. METHODS/DESIGN In an open label non-randomized trial treatment with baclofen to a maximum of 60 mg/day will be compared with treatment as usual (TAU) in recently detoxified GHB dependent patients (n = 80). The primary outcome measure will be the level of GHB use. Secondary outcome measures are craving levels, psychiatric symptom levels and quality of life. Questionnaires will be administered during 12 weeks of baclofen treatment and at follow-up (six months after the start of treatment). DISCUSSION It is hypothesized that baclofen treatment compared to TAU will be associated with significantly reduced GHB use. In addition, we hypothesize that baclofen treatment will be associated with decreased craving and anxiety levels, and higher quality of life. If results are in line with our hypotheses, further studies on the efficacy of baclofen using placebo controlled designs and long term follow-up are warranted. TRIAL REGISTRATION The Netherlands Trial Register with number NTR4528 . Registered 19 April 2014.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rama M Kamal
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Hogedwarsstraat 3, PO Box 243, Vught, 5260 AE, the Netherlands. .,Novadic-Kentron Addiction Care network, Vught, the Netherlands.
| | - Arnt Schellekens
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Hogedwarsstraat 3, PO Box 243, Vught, 5260 AE, the Netherlands.
| | - Cornelis AJ De Jong
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Hogedwarsstraat 3, PO Box 243, Vught, 5260 AE the Netherlands
| | - Boukje AG Dijkstra
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Hogedwarsstraat 3, PO Box 243, Vught, 5260 AE the Netherlands
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Symptoms and signs in interpreting gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) intoxication - an explorative study. Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med 2014; 22:27. [PMID: 24758357 PMCID: PMC4012517 DOI: 10.1186/1757-7241-22-27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2012] [Accepted: 04/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Acute poisoning with gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) has been a serious medical and social problem in different parts of the world including Sweden. GHB is a drug of abuse which acts primarily as central nervous system (CNS) depressants. GHB has serious toxicity, although many young users do not recognise GHB as a dangerous drug. The aim of this pilot study was to explore how symptoms with risk of failure in vital functions would be valued among professionals that encounter GHB intoxication in the emergency phase. Methods A web-based survey focusing on the assessment of vital clinical signs for possible GHB intoxication using a numeric scale was carried out during April and May 2011. The participants, n 105, are all professionals who encounter GHB intoxicated in the emergency phase, but have different levels of training in GHB intoxication, mainly Registered Nurses (RNs) in southwest Sweden, employed in pre-hospital or emergency departments at somatic and most psychiatric health care facilities, as well as police officers who in their work come into contact with drug users. Responses in the survey were scored according to risk of GHB intoxication with serious failure of vital functions. The score value was then referred to a so-called evidence based priority (EBP) scale and analysed using descriptive statistics and Fisher's exact test. Results Cardiac arrest, coma, hypoxia, general convulsions, slow respiratory and heart rate and pale skin are symptoms with the highest risk of serious failure in vital physical functions and were predominantly recognised as such. Conclusion Despite the professionals' different levels of training in GHB intoxication, all of them were relatively well aware of and in accordance regarding the most risky symptoms. The interpretation score for the less risky symptoms and signs of GHB intoxication varied depending on their degree of training. The results should be viewed cautiously, as the size of the professional groups and their general knowledge of critical symptoms of GHB poisoning varied.
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Abstract
Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB; sodium oxybate) is approved for narcolepsy symptom treatment, and it is also abused. This study compared the participant-rated, observer-rated effects, motor/cognitive, physiological, and reinforcing effects of GHB and ethanol in participants with histories of sedative (including alcohol) abuse. Fourteen participants lived on a residential unit for ∼1 month. Sessions were conducted Monday through Friday. Measures were taken before and repeatedly up to 24 hours after drug administration. Participants were administered GHB (1, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 g/70 kg), ethanol (12, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 g/70 kg), or placebo in a double-blind, within-subjects design. For safety, GHB and ethanol were administered in an ascending dose sequence, with placebos and both drugs intermixed across sessions. The sequence for each drug was stopped if significant impairment or intolerable effects occurred. Only 9 and 10 participants received the full dose range for GHB and ethanol, respectively. The highest doses of GHB and ethanol showed onset within 30 minutes, with peak effects at 60 minutes. GHB effects dissipated between 4 and 6 hours, whereas ethanol effects dissipated between 6 and 8 hours. Dose-related effects were observed for both drugs on a variety of measures assessing sedative drug effects, abuse liability, performance impairment, and physiological effects. Within-session measures of abuse liability were similar between the two drugs. However, postsession measures of abuse liability, including a direct preference test between the highest tolerated doses of each drug, suggested somewhat greater abuse liability for GHB, most likely as a result of the delayed aversive ethanol effects (e.g., headache).
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew W. Johnson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21224-6823
| | - Roland R. Griffiths
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21224-6823,Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21224-6823
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Self-administration of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) precursors gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) and 1,4-butanediol (1,4-BD) in baboons. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2013; 225:637-46. [PMID: 22945514 PMCID: PMC3547147 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-012-2851-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2012] [Accepted: 08/14/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) and 1,4-butanediol (1,4-BD) are gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) pro-drugs and drugs of abuse. OBJECTIVE Given the reports of abuse, and the ease at which GBL and 1,4-BD may be obtained, we investigated the reinforcing effects of GBL (n = 5) and 1,4-BD (n = 4) in baboons using IV self-administration procedures. METHODS Sessions ran 24 h/day. Each injection was contingent upon completion of a fixed number (120 or 160) of lever responses. A 3-h timeout period followed each injection, limiting the total number of injections to eight per day. Self-administration was first established with cocaine (0.32 mg/kg/injection). GBL (10-130.0 mg/kg/injection), 1,4-BD (10-100 mg/kg/injection), or vehicle was substituted for cocaine for at least 15 days. Food pellets were available ad libitum 24 h/day and were contingent upon completion of ten lever responses. RESULTS GBL (32-100 mg/kg/injection) maintained significantly greater numbers of injections when compared to vehicle in four of five baboons, and the mean rates of injection were high (more than six per day) in three baboons and moderate in the fourth baboon (four to six per day). 1,4-BD (78-130 mg/kg/injection) maintained significantly greater numbers of injections when compared to vehicle in only two out of four baboons, and mean rates were moderate to high in both baboons. Self-injection of these doses of GBL and 1,4-BD generally inhibited food-maintained responding. CONCLUSIONS GBL and 1,4-BD have abuse liability. Given that GBL and 1,4-BD are self-administered, are easier to obtain than GHB, and are detected in seized samples, additional legal control measures of these GHB pro-drugs may be needed.
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Zvosec D, Smith S. Response to “A Web-Based Study of Gamma Hydroxybutyrate (GHB): Patterns, Experiences, and Functions of Use”. Am J Addict 2011; 20:300-1. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1521-0391.2011.00135.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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