3-Methyl-GHB
3-Methyl-GHB (3-Methyl-Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate) is a chemical compound structurally related to gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), a naturally occurring neurotransmitter and a psychoactive drug. 3-Methyl-GHB is of interest in both clinical and forensic settings due to its potential effects on the central nervous system and its structural similarity to GHB.
Chemical Structure and Properties[edit | edit source]
3-Methyl-GHB is a derivative of GHB, characterized by the addition of a methyl group at the third carbon of the butanoic acid chain. This modification results in the chemical formula C5H10O3 and a molar mass of 118.13 g/mol. The presence of the methyl group can influence the compound's pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics compared to GHB.
Pharmacology[edit | edit source]
The pharmacological profile of 3-Methyl-GHB is not as well-studied as that of GHB. However, it is hypothesized to interact with similar receptors in the brain, such as the GABA_B receptor and the GHB receptor. These interactions may result in sedative, anxiolytic, and euphoric effects, although the potency and efficacy relative to GHB are not fully understood.
Metabolism[edit | edit source]
3-Methyl-GHB is metabolized in the body through pathways similar to those of GHB. It is likely converted into 3-methyl-gamma-butyrolactone (3-MGBL) and subsequently into other metabolites that are excreted in urine. The presence of the methyl group may alter the rate of metabolism and the profile of metabolites compared to GHB.
Legal Status[edit | edit source]
The legal status of 3-Methyl-GHB varies by country. In some jurisdictions, it may be classified as a controlled substance due to its structural similarity to GHB and potential for abuse. Researchers and clinicians should be aware of local regulations when handling or studying this compound.
Potential Uses and Research[edit | edit source]
Research into 3-Methyl-GHB is limited, but it may have potential applications in medicine similar to those of GHB, such as in the treatment of narcolepsy or as an anesthetic. Further studies are needed to explore its safety, efficacy, and potential therapeutic uses.
Safety and Toxicity[edit | edit source]
The safety profile of 3-Methyl-GHB is not well-documented. Given its structural similarity to GHB, it may pose risks of overdose, dependence, and withdrawal. Caution is advised when handling this compound, and further research is necessary to fully understand its toxicological properties.
Also see[edit | edit source]
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
|
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
| Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
