Gamma-Hydroxybutyric acid

Gamma-Hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), also known as 4-hydroxybutanoic acid, is a naturally occurring neurotransmitter and a psychoactive drug. It is a precursor to GABA, glutamate, and glycine in certain brain areas. GHB has been used in a medical setting as a general anesthetic, to treat conditions such as insomnia, clinical depression, narcolepsy, and alcoholism, and to improve athletic performance.

Chemistry

GHB is a naturally occurring substance found in the human central nervous system as well as in wine, beef, small citrus fruits, and in small amounts in some beers and wines. It is also found in the soft tissues of small citrus fruits and in the wine of these fruits.

Pharmacology

GHB has been found to bind to two specific receptors in the brain, the GHB receptor and the GABAB receptor. At high doses, GHB may induce nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, agitation, visual disturbances, depressed breathing, amnesia, unconsciousness, and death.

Medical use

GHB has been used for treating narcolepsy, alcoholism, and cataplexy. It is also used off-label for fibromyalgia.

Recreational use

GHB is a central nervous system depressant used as an intoxicant. It has been described as being like alcohol without the hangover. However, its use has been associated with serious side effects, including coma and death.

Legal status

In many countries, GHB is a controlled substance. It is illegal to manufacture, sell, or possess GHB in these countries.

See also

• Date rape drug
• Club drug
• Psychoactive drug
• Neurotransmitter

Gamma-Hydroxybutyric acid Resources
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