Gamma Hydroxybutyric Acid Overdose

Introduction

Gamma hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), also called fantasy or grievous bodily harm, is a naturally occurring depressant drug. So, it works by depressing the central nervous system. It is regarded as an illegal drug since it is often employed as a “party drug” in party settings. It is a fantasy drug as it is attributable to induce fantasy feelings such as euphoria, sociability, and relaxation. In addition, it precipitates an increased urge for sex. The drug enhances and increases the risk of dependence on the drug. In addition to the desirable effects, it also presents adverse reactions with a moderate amount. Also, a minor and inconsiderable increase in the drug gamma hydroxybutyric acid would result in severe toxic responses and even death.

What Are the Effects of Gamma Hydroxybutyric Acid?

Gamma hydroxybutyric acid, also chemically referred to as 4-hydroxy butanoic acid, is a naturally found neurotransmitter and depressant drug. Under medical settings and use, it is prescribed as a general anesthetic and for the treatment of narcolepsy, cataplexy, and alcohol dependence. However, on an illegal basis, it is used as an intoxicant, date-rape drug, athletic performance enhancer, and recreational one.

How Does Gamma Hydroxybutyric Acid Work?

Gamma hydroxybutyric acid is available in three forms, including colorless and odorless liquid, colorful liquid, or crystalline powder. GHB works similarly to alcohol and benzodiazepines. Gamma hydroxybutyric acid is a depressant possessing both anesthetic and sedative effects. It depresses the activity of the brain and the central nervous system. It presents the impact within 15 minutes, and the attained results persist for up to three hours. However, the effects of gamma hydroxybutyric acid significantly depend upon the amount of the drug administered. For instance, the following effects are seen with a moderate amount.

• Euphoria: Gammahydroxy butyric acid induces feelings of relaxation and euphoria. So, the user encounter reduced anxiety, great sociability, and a sense of pleasure.

• Sedation and Sleepiness: GHB possesses sedative effects leading to lethargy, drowsiness, and sometimes loss of consciousness. So, it can be used as calming and sleeping aids.

• Disinhibition: GHB could lower inhibitions and raise one’s sociability. So, the user involves in risky behaviors and eventually turns out to be an extrovert.

• Amnesia and Blackouts: GHB can lead to memory loss and blackouts when combined with alcohol and other substance.

• Disorientation: GHB can cause disorientation, confusion, and coordination difficulties. So, the user presents unsteady gait, slurred speech, and motion impairments.

What Is Gamma Hydroxybutyric Acid Overdose?

GHB shows moderate effects on desirable fantasies when used in appropriate quantity and quality. Nevertheless, a small increase in the amount can present pronounced and marked changes in the effects. So, a significant difference is noticeable in the person’s emotions, behavior, and overall conduct. The overdose can dramatically lead to respiratory distress, coma, and even death. So, gamma hydroxybutyric acid overdose is considered a potentially life-threatening condition. The overdose risk eventually increased in conjugation with particular drugs and alcohol. For instance, the following interactions are apparent with GHB.

• Gamma hydroxybutyric acid is more hazardous when combined with depressants.

• With alcohol, GHB is attributable to nausea, vomiting, disorganized behavior, and unconsciousness, even with lower levels of GHB.

What Are the Symptoms of Gamma Hydroxybutyric Acid Overdose?

GHB overdose is extremely dangerous since the system holds high hazardous altitudes of the drug. The symptoms of a high dose of gamma hydroxybutyric acid are listed below.

• Lack of coordination.

• Excessive sweating.

• Irregular and shallow breathing.

• Involuntary muscle contractions.

• Nausea.

• Vomiting.

• Agitation.

• Seizure attacks.

• Heart attacks.

• Abnormal heartbeats.

• Shortness of breath.

• A drop in blood pressure.

• Unconsciousness.

• Coma.

What Are the Risk Factors for Gamma Hydroxybutyric Acid Overdose?

One can overdose by any means if not taken with proper guidance and care. However, the following three determinants are considered the major risk factors for overdosing.

• Uncertain Source. The potent, source, and contamination are still unclear with gamma hydroxybutyric acid. The drug can also be supplied illegally with contamination or overdosages. This could eventually lead to misconduct and addictions.

• Inappropriate Dosage. In certain cases, the individuals are unaware of the quantity, dosages, and concentration of the drug they are administering.

• Combination With other Drugs. GHB is combined with other depressants, such as sedatives and alcohol, in terms of abuse. This combination is attributed to increasing the risk of respiratory distress and coma. In addition, certain studies revealed that drugs like marijuana, cocaine, and methamphetamine had been induced in people who are reported to the emergency concerns with gamma hydroxybutyric acid.

What Are the Treatment Options for Gamma Hydroxybutyric Acid Overdose?

Early emergency help is a significant way to prevent the complications and fatality of gamma hydroxybutyric acid overdose. Individuals with gamma hydroxybutyric acid report to the emergency department with potential breathing compromise and loss of consciousness. So, intervention is aimed towards these along with gamma hydroxybutyric acid overdose. The medical healthcare professionals will provide a breathing tube for maintaining the airway, IV (intravenous) access to replace fluids, and certain supportive means. Unfortunately, there is no particular antidote for GHB toxicity. So, the following process is toward blood toxicology investigations and the appropriate treatment, including activated charcoal and ethanol drip. The final process is all about the GHB withdrawal. The withdrawal step is taken into consideration since withdrawal can influence and complicate the overall recovery.

Is Gamma Hydroxybutyric Acid Overdose Fatal?

Gamma hydroxybutyric acid overdose can be fatal if the person is not reached out to the professional office or emergency helpline at the earliest. A certain publication has addressed the death report of 226 people with the overdose administration of gamma hydroxybutyric acid.

In addition, death can result from respiratory concerns and circulatory stoppage. Addiction and withdrawal from GHB can also cause life-threatening severe states, alarming for fatal. Nevertheless, death can be averted in cases of receiving early medical care for GHB overdose or toxicity.

Conclusion

If at all in doubt of overdose with gamma hydroxybutyric acid or a combination of alcohol with GHB, reach out to the emergency helpline without delay. Fortunately, early medical care can rapidly eliminate or remove it from the system. One can save their loved ones from GHB overdose by utilizing the wide range of treatment options and addiction treatment programs. Addicted gamma hydroxybutyric acid users can satisfactorily respond to the rehabilitation means with early and appropriate care.