Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 6, 2026

Autoradiography as a Simple and Powerful Method for Visualization and Characterization of Pharmacological Targets
Published on: March 12, 2019
Toxic ingestion of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid
Abstract:
Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) has become a popular new drug of abuse. Its effects include euphoria and disinhibition. Recently, several cases have been reported in the literature of life-threatening or lethal ingestions. We report the case of a 17-year-old male who became unresponsive after taking GHB. Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid is used outside the United States to treat narcolepsy. In the past, it was touted as a muscle-bulking aid and was taken by body-builders. It has also been implicated as a drug involved in "date-rapes." Patients who ingest excessive GHB have a markedly altered level of consciousness, as did the patient in this illustrative case. Neostigmine and physostigmine show promise as potential reversal agents. Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid overdose should be considered in any patient with altered mental status and a history of recreational drug abuse.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Types of Toxins
Air pollutants, primarily gases, pose significant threats to respiratory health, leading to conditions like hypoxia, lung cancer, and in extreme cases, death.
Environmental pollutants like...
Toxic Reactions: Overview
Toxicity falls into two primary categories: local and systemic.
Local toxicity appears at the exposure site, such as protein denaturation caused by caustic substances.
In contrast, systemic toxicity requires the toxic agent's absorption and distribution,...
Prevention of Further Absorption of Poison
Toxidromes: Clinical Features
Pharmaceutical Poisoning: Treatment Strategies
Hepatic Encephalopathy

