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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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Zafar R, Siegel M, Harding R, Barba T, Agnorelli C, Suseelan S, Roseman L, Wall M, Nutt DJ, Erritzoe D. Psychedelic therapy in the treatment of addiction: the past, present and future. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1183740. [PMID: 37377473 PMCID: PMC10291338 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1183740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychedelic therapy has witnessed a resurgence in interest in the last decade from the scientific and medical communities with evidence now building for its safety and efficacy in treating a range of psychiatric disorders including addiction. In this review we will chart the research investigating the role of these interventions in individuals with addiction beginning with an overview of the current socioeconomic impact of addiction, treatment options, and outcomes. We will start by examining historical studies from the first psychedelic research era of the mid-late 1900s, followed by an overview of the available real-world evidence gathered from naturalistic, observational, and survey-based studies. We will then cover modern-day clinical trials of psychedelic therapies in addiction from first-in-human to phase II clinical trials. Finally, we will provide an overview of the different translational human neuropsychopharmacology techniques, including functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and positron emission tomography (PET), that can be applied to foster a mechanistic understanding of therapeutic mechanisms. A more granular understanding of the treatment effects of psychedelics will facilitate the optimisation of the psychedelic therapy drug development landscape, and ultimately improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayyan Zafar
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maxim Siegel
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca Harding
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tommaso Barba
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Claudio Agnorelli
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Shayam Suseelan
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Leor Roseman
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Wall
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Invicro, London, United Kingdom
| | - David John Nutt
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David Erritzoe
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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3
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Muacevic A, Adler JR. Withdrawal of Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate in a Saudi Male Patient: A Case Report. Cureus 2022; 14:e32298. [PMID: 36505956 PMCID: PMC9729041 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.32298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant with limited clinical use but has been misused in the last few decades. During intoxication, the patient may develop CNS depression and may have agitation, while during withdrawal, the patient can present with severe agitation or delirium. Here, we report the case of a 30-year-old Saudi male patient who was brought by his brother to the emergency department (ED) with agitation and delirium. The patient's friend stated the patient had been misusing GHB mixed with alcohol for the last seven months, with the last use occurring 24 hours before the ED presentation. The patient was put on a five-point restraint for safety concerns and received supportive therapy. After two days of admission, the patient completely recovered. As the patient provided a limited history of his GHB misuse, the clinician lacked sufficient information to determine whether the patient was intoxicated or withdrawing. Clinicians in Saudi Arabia need to be highly suspicious of GHB misuse when treating patients with drug intoxication or withdrawal.
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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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5
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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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6
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Nahar LK, Murphy KG, Paterson S. Baclofen: To Screen or Not to Screen in Postmortem Blood? J Anal Toxicol 2021; 45:612-618. [PMID: 32986094 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkaa132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Baclofen (BLF) has been prescribed in the UK since 1972 for the alleviation of spasticity. However, evidence suggests BLF is also recreationally misused. It has been associated with ethanol, gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), pregabalin (PGL) and gabapentin (GBP) use/abuse, and deaths have been reported. With current postmortem (PM) toxicological screening approaches, BLF is not routinely included in the general drugs screen and is only screened for if specifically mentioned in the case documents. The extent of BLF misuse is thus unclear. This study was carried out to determine the prevalence and concentrations of BLF in Coroners' toxicology, to investigate whether BLF misuse with ethanol, GHB, PGL and GBP is causing death and to determine the potential extent of the underreporting of BLF-associated deaths. Between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2017, 3,750 PM femoral vein bloods were screened for BLF; all positive cases were quantified. Only 0.56% of samples screened positive for BLF, with concentration ranging from 0.08 to 102.00 µg/mL (median = 0.28). It was determined that if routine analysis without additional screening of BLF had been performed, 43% of BLF positives cases would have been missed. However, given the low incidence of detection, this only represents 0.25% of the cohort. Likely illicit use of BLF with GHB was seen in one case only. Death from the recreational use of BLF with PGL and GBP was not observed. Only two cases positive for BLF had an ethanol concentration of ≥50 mg%. Two cases of presumed intentional overdose of BLF were observed. This study highlights that although BLF abuse may be occurring, deaths are rare. It is therefore not cost- or time-effective to screen for BLF in all PM cases. With BLF currently being investigated for the treatment of alcoholism and withdrawal symptoms of illicit drug use, BLF-related deaths may rise in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limon Khatun Nahar
- Toxicology Unit, Imperial College London, Toxicology Unit, London, W6 8RP, UK
| | - Kevin G Murphy
- Section of Endocrinology and Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, Endocrinology and Metabolism, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Sue Paterson
- Toxicology Unit, Imperial College London, Toxicology Unit, London, W6 8RP, UK
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7
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Bernstein A. Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) Withdrawal in a Patient with Polysubstance Use. J Psychoactive Drugs 2020; 53:299-301. [PMID: 33357048 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2020.1865591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and its various pro-drugs are GABA-B central nervous system depressants more commonly known as "G" and "liquid ecstasy" among those who consume. Due to the depressant quality of the substance and its convenience in online marketplaces, it has become a more commonly abused drug, characteristically among people involved in the "club scene" and among men who have sex with men. As the dose of GHB necessary to obtain feelings of euphoria is relatively low combined with the substance's rapid metabolism, GHB is nearly undetectable through traditional emergency department urinary drug testing. Consequentially, although the treatment of GHB intoxication and withdrawal is mainly supportive, it is difficult for providers to determine whether GHB is the cause of a patient's symptoms. Moreover, when GHB is combined with other substances, treatment becomes more complicated. The author presents a case of GHB intoxication and withdrawal in a patient with an extensive polysubstance use history demonstrating not only the difficulty of diagnosis but also a timeline outlining the interventions taken from arrival to discharge with a successful outcome faster than the conventional timeline of GHB withdrawal and recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Bernstein
- Department of Psychiatry, Creedmoor Psychiatric Center, Queens Village, NY, USA
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8
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Hockenhull J, Amioka E, Black JC, Forber A, Haynes CM, Wood DM, Dart RC, Dargan PI. Non-medical use of benzodiazepines and GABA analogues in Europe. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2020; 87:1684-1694. [PMID: 32888191 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.14537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS We investigated the prevalence of non-medical use (NMU) of benzodiazepines and GABA analogues in Europe. METHODS Data were collected using the online Non-Medical Use of Prescription Drugs (NMURx) survey from France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK. RESULTS The study included 55 223 eligible surveys which, after post-stratification weights were applied, represented approximately 260 million European adults. Lifetime NMU of benzodiazepines was highest in Spain (6.5%, 95% CI: 6.0-7.0) and lowest in Germany (1.7%, 1.5-2.0). Lifetime NMU of GABA analogues was highest in Germany (5.4%, 5.0-5.7) and lowest in France (2.2%, 1.9-2.5) and the UK (2.2%, 1.9-2.6) While no notable difference was observed for France or the UK, there was a higher prevalence of last 12-month NMU of benzodiazepines compared to GABA analogues in Italy (2.4 times higher) and Spain (3.0 times higher) and a higher prevalence of NMU of GABA analogues compared to benzodiazepines in Germany (2.6 times higher). CONCLUSION This study shows that there is variation in NMU of benzodiazepines and GABA analogues among countries. Of particular interest is the high incidence of GABA analogue NMU in Germany and benzodiazepine NMU in Spain. Further research to identify factors and motivations responsible for the higher prevalence observed are essential to inform public health policies in those countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Hockenhull
- Clinical Toxicology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Elise Amioka
- Rocky Mountain Poison & Drug Safety, Denver Health and Hospital Authority, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Joshua C Black
- Rocky Mountain Poison & Drug Safety, Denver Health and Hospital Authority, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Alyssa Forber
- Rocky Mountain Poison & Drug Safety, Denver Health and Hospital Authority, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Colleen M Haynes
- Rocky Mountain Poison & Drug Safety, Denver Health and Hospital Authority, Denver, CO, USA
| | - David M Wood
- Clinical Toxicology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Richard C Dart
- Rocky Mountain Poison & Drug Safety, Denver Health and Hospital Authority, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Paul I Dargan
- Clinical Toxicology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
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9
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Successful Management of Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) Withdrawal Using Baclofen as a Standalone Therapy: A Case Report. J Addict Med 2020; 13:415-417. [PMID: 30907765 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000000514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB)-a GABA-B agonist-can lead to a use disorder, and a withdrawal syndrome similar to that of alcohol. At present, evidence is lacking for how to best manage GHB withdrawal, and often clinicians rely on alcohol withdrawal management approaches, using medications like benzodiazepines (BZD). However, BZD doses needed to control GHB withdrawal symptoms are typically much higher than those required for alcohol, posing significant safety risks. Novel approaches include the use of baclofen as an adjunct to BZD, allowing reductions in BZD requirements. While the use of baclofen as monotherapy may result in even greater risk reductions, research to support this approach is limited. CASE We present a case of a 26-year-old female with severe GHB use disorder and history of severe withdrawal symptoms, whose withdrawal was successfully, managed using baclofen alone. CONCLUSION In keeping with other case reports, baclofen appears to have potential to be used in the management of GHB withdrawal. Here, we presented a case of severe GHB withdrawal which was managed solely by baclofen. Clinical research is needed to evaluate baclofen's potential as a standalone treatment for GHB withdrawal.
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10
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Beurmanjer H, Luykx JJ, De Wilde B, van Rompaey K, Buwalda VJA, De Jong CAJ, Dijkstra BAG, Schellekens AFA. Tapering with Pharmaceutical GHB or Benzodiazepines for Detoxification in GHB-Dependent Patients: A Matched-Subject Observational Study of Treatment-as-Usual in Belgium and The Netherlands. CNS Drugs 2020; 34:651-659. [PMID: 32319006 PMCID: PMC7275016 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-020-00730-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) withdrawal syndrome often has a fulminant course, with a rapid onset and swift progression of severe complications. In clinical practice, two pharmacological regimens are commonly used to counteract withdrawal symptoms during GHB detoxification: tapering with benzodiazepines (BZDs) or tapering with pharmaceutical GHB. In Belgium, standard treatment is tapering with BZDs, while in the Netherlands, pharmaceutical GHB is the preferred treatment method. Though BZDs are cheaper and readily available, case studies suggest GHB tapering results in less severe withdrawal and fewer complications. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to compare two treatments-as-usual in tapering methods on withdrawal, craving and adverse events during detoxification in GHB-dependent patients. METHODS In this multicentre non-randomised indirect comparison of two treatments-as-usual, patients with GHB dependence received BZD tapering (Belgian sample: n = 42) or GHB tapering (Dutch sample: n = 42, matched historical sample). Withdrawal was assessed using the Subjective and Objective Withdrawal Scales, craving was assessed with a Visual Analogue Scale and adverse events were systematically recorded. Differences in withdrawal and craving were analysed using a linear mixed-model analysis, with 'days in admission' and 'detoxification method' as fixed factors. Differences in adverse events were analysed using a Chi-square analysis. RESULTS Withdrawal decreased over time in both groups. Withdrawal severity was higher in patients receiving BZD tapering (subjective mean = 36.50, standard deviation = 21.08; objective mean = 8.05, standard deviation = 4.68) than in patients receiving pharmaceutical GHB tapering (subjective mean = 15.90; standard deviation = 13.83; objective mean = 3.72; standard deviation = 2.56). No differences in craving were found. Adverse events were more common in the BZD than the GHB group, especially delirium (20 vs 2.5%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS These results support earlier work that BZD tapering might not always sufficiently dampen withdrawal in GHB-dependent patients. However, it needs to be taken into account that both treatments were assessed in separate countries. Based on the current findings, tapering with pharmaceutical GHB could be considered for patients with GHB dependence during detoxification, as it has potentially less severe withdrawal and fewer complications than BZD tapering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harmen Beurmanjer
- Novadic-Kentron Addictioncare, Hogedwarsstraat 3, 5261, AE, Vught, The Netherlands. .,Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - J. J. Luykx
- Ziekenhuis Netwerk Antwerpen (ZNA), Borgerhout, Belgium
| | - B. De Wilde
- Ziekenhuis Netwerk Antwerpen (ZNA), Borgerhout, Belgium ,University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - V. J. A. Buwalda
- Novadic-Kentron Addictioncare, Hogedwarsstraat 3, 5261 AE Vught, The Netherlands
| | - C. A. J. De Jong
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - B. A. G. Dijkstra
- Novadic-Kentron Addictioncare, Hogedwarsstraat 3, 5261 AE Vught, The Netherlands ,Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - A. F. A. Schellekens
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Nijmegen, The Netherlands ,Department of Psychiatry, RadboudUmc, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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11
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Liao PC, Chang HM, Chen LY. Clinical management of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) withdrawal delirium with CIWA-Ar protocol. J Formos Med Assoc 2018; 117:1124-1127. [PMID: 29933901 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfma.2018.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Revised: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is a synthetic drug used mainly for recreational purpose. Although the prevalence of GHB abuse is low in Taiwan, GHB has become increasingly popular in certain subpopulations such as clubbers and men who have sex with men (MSM). GHB dependence could be associated with severe withdrawal syndrome including hallucinations and delirium. Despite systematic studies on detoxification and management of GHB withdrawal have been performed, no validated measurement for severity of GHB withdrawal syndrome is available. Here we present a case of GHB withdrawal delirium that was treated successfully with fixed and symptom-triggered benzodiazepine dosing regimen based on Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol-Revised (CIWA-Ar) scale. The utilization of CIWA-Ar in such cases could offer useful guidance for benzodiazepine dosing. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of GHB withdrawal delirium in Taiwan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Po-Chiao Liao
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hu-Ming Chang
- Taipei City Psychiatric Center, Taipei City Hospital, Addiction Psychiatry Department, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Lian-Yu Chen
- Taipei City Psychiatric Center, Taipei City Hospital, Addiction Psychiatry Department, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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12
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Beurmanjer H, Kamal RM, de Jong CAJ, Dijkstra BAG, Schellekens AFA. Baclofen to Prevent Relapse in Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB)-Dependent Patients: A Multicentre, Open-Label, Non-Randomized, Controlled Trial. CNS Drugs 2018; 32:437-442. [PMID: 29651711 PMCID: PMC5976688 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-018-0516-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) dependence is associated with a severe, potentially lethal, withdrawal syndrome and relapse rates as high as 60% within 3 months of detoxification. Baclofen has been shown to decrease self-administration of GHB in mice and reduce relapse in a case series of GHB-dependent patients. Controlled studies on the effectiveness of baclofen to prevent relapse in GHB-dependent patients are lacking. AIM The aim of this study was to assess effectiveness of baclofen in preventing relapse in GHB-dependent patients. METHODS This was an out-patient, multicentre, open-label, non-randomized, controlled trial in GHB-dependent patients (n = 107) in the Netherlands. Treatment as usual (TAU, n = 70) was compared with TAU plus baclofen 45-60 mg/day for 3 months (n = 37). Outcome measures were rates of lapse (any use) and relapse (using GHB on average once a week or more), based on self-report. Side effects were monitored with a baclofen side-effects questionnaire. Treatment groups were compared using Chi square analyses, with both per-protocol (PP) and intention-to-treat (ITT) analyses. RESULTS GHB-dependent patients treated with baclofen after detoxification showed no reduced lapse rates, but reduced relapse and dropout rates, compared with patients receiving TAU only (24 vs 50%). While both ITT and PP analyses revealed similar results, the effectiveness of baclofen prescribed PP was slightly higher than in ITT analysis. Patients reported overall limited side effects, with the most frequently reported being feeling tired (28%), sleepiness (14%) and feeling depressed (14%). No serious adverse events were reported. CONCLUSIONS This study showed potential effectiveness of baclofen in preventing relapse in patients with GHB dependence after detoxification. Though promising, future studies with longer follow-up and a randomized double-blind design should confirm these findings before recommendations for clinical practice can be made. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION Netherlands Trial Register with number NTR4528.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harmen Beurmanjer
- Novadic-Kentron, Vught, The Netherlands.
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | | | - Cor A J de Jong
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Boukje A G Dijkstra
- Novadic-Kentron, Vught, The Netherlands
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Arnt F A Schellekens
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Glynn RW, Byrne N, O'Dea S, Shanley A, Codd M, Keenan E, Ward M, Igoe D, Clarke S. Chemsex, risk behaviours and sexually transmitted infections among men who have sex with men in Dublin, Ireland. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2017; 52:9-15. [PMID: 29223761 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2017] [Revised: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drug use for or during sex ('chemsex') among MSM has caused concern, because of the direct effects of the drugs themselves, and because of an increased risk of transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This study aimed to assess the prevalence of chemsex, associated behaviours and STIs among attendees at Ireland's only MSM-specific sexual health clinic in Dublin over a six week period in 2016. METHODS The questionnaire collected demographic data, information on sexuality and sexual practice, self-reported history of treatment for STIs, and chemsex use. Key variables independently associated with treatment for STIs over the previous 12 months were identified using multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS The response rate was 90% (510/568). One in four (27%) reported engaging in chemsex within the previous 12 months. Half had taken ≥2 drugs on his last chemsex occasion. One in five (23%) reported that they/their partners had lost consciousness as a result of chemsex. Those engaging in chemsex were more likely to have had more sexual partners(p<0.001), more partners for anal intercourse (p<0.001) and to have had condomless anal intercourse(p=0.041). They were also more likely to report having been treated for gonorrhoea over the previous 12 months (adjusted OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.19-3.46, p=0.009). One in four (25%) reported that chemsex was impacting negatively on their lives and almost one third (31%) reported that they would like help or advice about chemsex. CONCLUSION These results support international evidence of a chemsex culture among a subset of MSM. They will be used to develop an effective response which simultaneously addresses addiction and sexual ill-health among MSM who experience harm/seek help as a consequence of engagement in chemsex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronan W Glynn
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Dr. Steevens' Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland; CTAR Biostatistics and Health Research, UCD School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
| | - Niamh Byrne
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Dr. Steevens' Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - Siobhan O'Dea
- Gay Men's Health Service, Baggot Street Hospital, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Adam Shanley
- Gay Men's Health Service, Baggot Street Hospital, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Mary Codd
- CTAR Biostatistics and Health Research, UCD School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Eamon Keenan
- Addiction Services, National Social Inclusion Office, Mill Lane, Palmerstown, Dublin 20, Ireland
| | - Mary Ward
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Dr. Steevens' Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - Derval Igoe
- Health Protection Surveillance Centre,25-27 Middle Gardiner Street, Dublin 1, Ireland
| | - Susan Clarke
- Gay Men's Health Service, Baggot Street Hospital, Dublin 2, Ireland
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14
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Floyd CN, Wood DM, Dargan PI. Baclofen in gamma-hydroxybutyrate withdrawal: patterns of use and online availability. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2017; 74:349-356. [PMID: 29198063 PMCID: PMC5808054 DOI: 10.1007/s00228-017-2387-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 11/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) withdrawal is a life-threatening condition that does not always respond to standard treatment with benzodiazepines. Baclofen has potential utility as a pharmacological adjunct and anecdotal reports suggest that it is being used by drug users to self-manage GHB withdrawal symptoms. Here, we investigate current patterns of use and the online availably of baclofen. Methods Data triangulation techniques were applied to published scientific literature and publicly accessible Internet resources (grey literature) to assess the use of baclofen in GHB withdrawal. An Internet snapshot survey was performed to identify the availability of baclofen for online purchase and the compliance of retailers with the UK regulations. Data were collected according to pre-defined criteria. Results A total of 37 cases of baclofen use in GHB withdrawal were identified in the scientific literature, as well as 51 relevant discussion threads across eight Internet forums in the grey literature. Baclofen was available to purchase from 38 online pharmacies, of which only one conformed to the UK regulations. Conclusions There is limited published evidence on the use of baclofen in GHB withdrawal, but both scientific and grey literature suggests clinical utility. Online pharmacies are readily offering prescription-only-medication without prescription and due to inadequate regulation, pose a danger to the public. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s00228-017-2387-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher N Floyd
- Clinical Toxicology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and King's Health Partners, London, UK. .,Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - David M Wood
- Clinical Toxicology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and King's Health Partners, London, UK.,Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Paul I Dargan
- Clinical Toxicology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and King's Health Partners, London, UK.,Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
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15
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Treat γ-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and γ-butyrolactone (GBL) dependence with benzodiazepines first, then with other approaches if benzodiazepine-resistant. DRUGS & THERAPY PERSPECTIVES 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s40267-017-0440-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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16
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Treatment consumption and treatment re-enrollment in GHB-dependent patients in The Netherlands. Drug Alcohol Depend 2017; 176:96-101. [PMID: 28531770 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2017.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Revised: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this study was to assess treatment consumption and re-enrollment in treatment in patients with gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB)-dependence in Dutch Addiction Treatment Centers (ATCs) in comparison with other addictions. METHODS A cohort-study using nationwide administrative data from regular Dutch ATCs associated with the Dutch National Alcohol and Drugs Information System (LADIS), covering an estimated 95% of ATCs. We selected in- and out-patients with alcohol, drug and/or behavioral addictions with a first treatment episode in 2008-2011 and consecutive treatments until 2013 (n=71,679). Patients still in treatment at that date (n=3686; 5.1%), forensic patients (n=1949; 2.7%) and deceased patients (n=570; 0.8%) were excluded, leaving 65,474 patients (91.3%). Of those, 596 (0.9%) patients had GHB dependence. We analyzed number of treatment contacts, treatment duration, admissions and admission duration of the first treatment episode, and re-enrollment (defined as having started a second treatment episode in the study period). RESULTS GHB-dependent patients showed the highest number of treatment contacts, duration of treatment and chance of being admitted. Re-enrollment rates were 2-5 times higher in GHB-dependent patients than other patients with adjusted HR of other addictions ranging from 0.18 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.15-0.21) to 0.53 (95% CI: 0.47-0.61). CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates high levels of treatment consumption and high rates of treatment re-enrollment in GHB-dependent patients. These findings highlight the urgency of developing effective relapse prevention interventions for GHB-dependent patients.
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17
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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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18
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Łobejko Ł, Machała P, Makarewicz A, Karakuła Juchnowicz H. Delirium in the course of dependence upon gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) - a case report. CURRENT PROBLEMS OF PSYCHIATRY 2016. [DOI: 10.1515/cpp-2016-0029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) is an organic chemical compound of the lactones group, undergoing biotransformation into gamma-hydroxybutyrate after the intake (GHB). Because of the easy access, low price and fast psychotropic effect, GBL is becoming increasingly popular substance having intoxicating effect. Taking of GBL causes dose-dependent euphoric, sedative, hypnotic effects. Its use can quickly lead to physical dependence with severe course of withdrawal syndromes. Withdrawal symptoms resemble those occurring in the course of addiction to alcohol or benzodiazepines. In some patients, delirium develops during substance withdrawal. There are described severe, life-threatening complications in the course of delirium in GBL-dependent patients. The management of withdrawal syndromes and delirium mainly involves administration of benzodiazepines. In this paper, we present a case of delirium in 24-year-old man addicted to GBL hospitalized in a psychiatric ward. Delirium in this patient went without complications and was successfully managed with diazepam and lorazepam.
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Affiliation(s)
- Łukasz Łobejko
- Psychiatric Ward, Autonomous Public Healthcare in Leżajsk
| | - Piotr Machała
- Psychiatric Ward, Autonomous Public Healthcare in Leżajsk
| | - Agata Makarewicz
- I Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Early Intervention, Medical University of Lublin
| | - Hanna Karakuła Juchnowicz
- I Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Early Intervention, Medical University of Lublin
- Department of Clinical Neuropsychiatry, Medical University in Lublin
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