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Published on: June 23, 2023
Gamma-hydroxybutyrate and ethanol effects and interactions in humans
Dung Thai1, Jo Ellen Dyer, Neal L Benowitz
1Amgen Corporation, Thousand Oaks, CA, USA.
Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology
|September 16, 2006
Summary
Combining gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) with ethanol increases adverse effects like hypotension and decreased oxygen saturation in healthy adults. Minimal pharmacokinetic interactions were observed between these substances.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is a frequently abused drug with potential for severe toxicity, especially when combined with other central nervous system depressants.
- Understanding the synergistic effects of GHB and ethanol is crucial for managing overdose and toxicity.
- This study investigates the combined impact of GHB and ethanol on physiological parameters in human volunteers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the individual and combined effects of GHB and ethanol on hemodynamic function, oxygen saturation, and pharmacokinetic interactions.
- To assess the safety profile of combined GHB and ethanol administration in healthy adults.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study involving 16 healthy adults.
- Participants received GHB (50 mg/kg) and ethanol (0.6 g/kg) individually and in combination.
- Plasma concentrations, heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation were monitored over 24 hours.
Main Results:
- Combined GHB and ethanol administration led to a maximal decrease in oxygen saturation (-2.1%) compared to individual administration.
- Ethanol significantly decreased systolic and diastolic blood pressure and increased heart rate, while GHB alone did not affect hemodynamic parameters.
- Adverse events, including hypotension and vomiting, were more frequent with combined GHB and ethanol ingestion.
Conclusions:
- Modest doses of GHB alone do not significantly impact hemodynamic function but can decrease oxygen saturation.
- The combination of GHB and ethanol results in increased adverse effects, including gastrointestinal disturbances, hypotension, and further reduction in oxygen saturation.
- Minimal pharmacokinetic interactions were observed between GHB and ethanol, suggesting that observed effects are primarily pharmacodynamic.
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