G. Tunnicliff, SITES OF ACTION OF GAMMA-HYDROXYBUTYRATE (GHB) - A NEUROACTIVE DRUG WITH ABUSE POTENTIAL, Journal of toxicology. Clinical toxicology, 35(6), 1997, pp. 581-590
Objective: This review highlights the biochemistry, pharmacology, and
toxicology of the naturally-occurring fatty acid derivative, gamma-hyd
roxy-butyrate (GHB). GHB is derived from gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA
) and is proposed to function as an inhibitory chemical transmitter in
the central nervous system. Content: When administered in pharmacolog
ical doses, its powerful central nervous system depressant effects are
readily observed. Although some of the neurophysiological actions of
GHB could involve alterations in dopaminergic transmission in the basa
l ganglia, both its physiological and pharmacological actions are prob
ably mediated through specific brain receptors for GHB. In addition, G
HB might mediate some of its effects through interaction with the GABA
(B) receptor. Experimentally, GHB has been used as a model for petit m
al epilepsy; clinically, it has been used as a general anesthetic and
as a drug to treat certain sleep disorders and related conditions. Owi
ng to the purported ability of GHB to induce a state of euphoria, recr
eational use of this substance is popular. Although no deaths or long-
term problems have been associated with GHB abuse, symptoms of GHB int
oxication can be severe. The continued potential for GHB abuse makes i
t imperative for clinical toxicologists to be aware of the effects of
this agent. Future research on the mechanism of action of GHB is neede
d to elucidate both its central nervous system depressant properties a
nd its ability to effect a state of well-being.