217 results match your criteria: "Toxicity Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate"
Reported recreational drug and new psychoactive substance use versus laboratory detection of substances by high-resolution mass spectrometry in patients presenting to an emergency department in London with acute drug toxicity.
Clin Toxicol (Phila)
November 2024
Clinical Toxicology, Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and King's Health Partners, London, UK.
Article Synopsis
- Clinicians often rely on patients' self-reports regarding substance use in cases of acute drug toxicity, but this study assesses the reliability of those reports compared to laboratory findings in serum samples.
- A cohort of 1,000 adults with acute drug toxicity was analyzed over a year, focusing on the accuracy of self-reported drug use against identified substances through advanced mass spectrometry.
- Results indicated that while most patients were fairly accurate in reporting drug classes used, with a positive predictive value of 0.68 and a negative predictive value of 0.90, substantial discrepancies were noted between reported and detected substances, particularly for hallucinogens.
Changes in the rates and characteristics of gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB)-related death in Australia, 2001-2023.
Drug Alcohol Rev
September 2024
National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
Article Synopsis
- GHB-related death rates in Australia remained stable from 2001 to 2015, but significantly increased from 2016 to 2021, with an annual percent change of 44.4% during the latter period.
- Most deaths were due to unintentional toxicity (81.6%), and victims tended to be older, less employed, and more likely to have substance use and mental health issues compared to earlier years.
- Despite the increased rates, the median blood GHB concentration remained relatively stable, while the occurrence of aspiration pneumonia in these cases decreased.
Co-exposure to gamma-hydroxybutyrate is associated with attenuated neuropsychiatric and stimulant effects of metamfetamine.
Clin Toxicol (Phila)
May 2024
Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Southbank, Victoria, Australia.
Article Synopsis
- Acute metamfetamine toxicity leads to stimulant effects and neuropsychiatric issues, which may be reduced by certain drugs like benzodiazepines and gamma-hydroxybutyrate.
- A clinical registry study examined the impacts of gamma-hydroxybutyrate co-exposure in patients with confirmed metamfetamine use, while excluding cases with other stimulants or sedatives.
- Results showed that those exposed to both metamfetamine and gamma-hydroxybutyrate had higher blood concentrations of metamfetamine and distinct heart rate patterns compared to those who were solely on metamfetamine or benzodiazepines.
Accidental calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium oxybates (Xywave) overdose: mistiming of a single night's narcolepsy medication leading to respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation.
BMJ Case Rep
May 2024
Emergency Medicine Residency Program, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center - New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA.
Article Synopsis
- GHB, often viewed as an illegal drug, is now prescribed for narcolepsy to improve sleep and reduce daytime drowsiness.
- A case study highlights a college-aged woman who accidentally took her GHB dose too early, leading to severe complications like respiratory failure and requiring mechanical ventilation.
- This incident emphasizes the need for emergency physicians to consider GHB toxicity in narcolepsy patients and warns users and doctors about the potential risks associated with this medication.
A multicentre case series of analytically confirmed gamma-hydroxybutyrate intoxications in Western Australian emergency departments: Pre-hospital circumstances, co-detections and clinical outcomes.
Drug Alcohol Rev
May 2024
Centre for Clinical Research in Emergency Medicine, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Perth, Australia.
Article Synopsis
- A study in Western Australia analyzed emergency department cases involving GHB, focusing on demographics, pre-hospital circumstances, and clinical outcomes from April 2020 to July 2022.
- Out of 45 cases, the median age was 34, with 53.3% being female, and most arrived by ambulance requiring immediate care; one-third were admitted to intensive care.
- The high occurrence of co-detection with methylamphetamine and the significant number of patients presenting with severe consciousness impairment highlight trends that need further investigation for public health implications.
Sex and Cross-Sex Testosterone Treatment Alters Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate Acid Toxicokinetics and Toxicodynamics in Rats.
Pharmaceutics
January 2024
Department of Pharmaceutics and Medicinal Chemistry, Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA 95211, USA.
Article Synopsis
- GHB (Γ-hydroxybutyric acid) is a substance known for its sedative effects and is increasingly used recreationally, especially within the LGBTQ+ community.
- This study examined how administering testosterone impacts the way GHB is processed and its effects on the body, using rats to explore potential treatment strategies for overdose.
- Results showed that testosterone alters GHB's clearance and sedative effects, suggesting that using a specific inhibitor (MCT1) could improve treatment outcomes for GHB overdose in both cisgender and transgender males.
GHB toxicokinetics and renal monocarboxylate transporter expression are influenced by the estrus cycle in rats.
BMC Pharmacol Toxicol
November 2023
Department of Pharmaceutics and Medicinal Chemistry, Thomas J Long School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA, 95211, USA.
Article Synopsis
- The study examines the effects of sex hormones and the estrus cycle on the renal clearance of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) in female rats compared to males, highlighting an absence of treatments for GHB overdose.
- Researchers evaluated the toxicokinetics of GHB and the expression of MCT1, SMCT1, and CD147 transporters through blood and urine sampling in different configurations of male and female rats during varied hormonal states.
- Findings indicate that female rats, particularly in the proestrus phase, show increased renal clearance of GHB and lower transporter expression, suggesting they may be less vulnerable to GHB toxicity than males.
Determinants of Admission to Critical Care Following Acute Recreational Drug Toxicity: A Euro-DEN Plus Study.
J Clin Med
September 2023
Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Pharmacological Sciences of Southern Switzerland, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland.
Article Synopsis
- * Key factors that increased the likelihood of critical care admission included being older than 35 years, using multiple drugs, co-ingesting alcohol, and using substances like GHB/GBL, while substances like cocaine and cannabis were associated with lower admission rates.
- * The findings highlight important determinants for critical care admissions and suggest a need for further research to understand the factors influencing healthcare decisions for these patients.
The Alzheimer's Disease Brain, Its Microvasculature, and NADPH Oxidase.
J Alzheimers Dis
April 2024
Department of Psychiatry, Baycrest Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
The deterioration of the brain's microvasculature, particularly in the hippocampus, appears to be a very early event in the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD), preceding even the deposition of amyloid-β. A damaged microvasculature reduces the supply of oxygen and glucose to this region and limits the production of energy, ATP. The damage may be a function of the rise with age in the expression and activity of NADPH oxidase (NOX) in these microvessels.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFAnalytically confirmed illicit and novel psychoactive drug use in Western Australian emergency departments: initial results from the Emerging Drugs Network of Australia (EDNA).
Clin Toxicol (Phila)
July 2023
Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Centre for Clinical Research in Emergency Medicine, Perth, Australia.
Article Synopsis
- The study highlights the need for a drug surveillance system in Australian emergency departments to better understand acute illicit drug use and its impact.
- Data was collected from 434 patients presenting with severe drug toxicity, revealing that a significant majority had illicit drugs or novel psychoactive substances detected.
- Key findings included high prevalence of metamfetamine and novel benzodiazepines among the substances identified, with a notable proportion of patients requiring intensive care.
Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), 1,4-butanediol (1,4BD), and gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) intoxication: A state-of-the-art review.
Regul Toxicol Pharmacol
August 2023
Centre Antipoison de Bordeaux CHU de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France.
Article Synopsis
- GHB is produced naturally from GABA or can be obtained from substances like 1,4-butanediol and GBL, which are quickly converted to GHB in the body.
- When ingested, GHB has a rapid absorption rate and its effects vary based on dosage, often leading to neurological disorders and potential withdrawal symptoms with long-term use.
- While GHB is regulated internationally due to its association with abuse and drug-facilitated crimes, substances like GBL and 1,4-BD are not as strictly controlled, necessitating careful monitoring to prevent misuse and related health risks.
Toxic copper level increases erythrocyte glycolytic rate, glutathione production and alters electrolyte balance in male Wistar rats.
J Trace Elem Med Biol
September 2023
Applied and Environmental Physiology Unit, Department of Physiology, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.
Article Synopsis
- Copper is essential for energy metabolism and red blood cell formation but can be harmful in excess, leading to oxidative damage and cellular disruption.
- In a study with male Wistar rats, one group received copper sulfate to induce toxicity while a control group received distilled water for comparison over 30 days.
- Results indicated that copper toxicity increased the activity of several key enzymes and levels of ATP and glutathione in red blood cells, while decreasing lactate dehydrogenase activity and nitric oxide levels, suggesting an altered metabolic response due to copper excess.
Characteristics of analytically confirmed gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) positive patients in the emergency department: presentation, poly-drug use, disposition and impact on intensive care resource utilisation.
Clin Toxicol (Phila)
April 2023
Emergency Department, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, Australia.
Article Synopsis
- Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is a central nervous system depressant associated with a high risk of overdose and brief detection times in the body, leading to concerns in emergency medical scenarios.
- A study conducted over 15 months at four emergency departments in Adelaide found that out of 1120 intoxicated patients, 309 (27.6%) tested positive for GHB, with many also using methamphetamine.
- The results showed significant central nervous system depression in GHB-positive patients, with higher positivity rates in females, and indicated that higher blood concentrations of GHB correlated with increased severity of toxicity.
Dihydromyricetin Protects Against Salsolinol-Induced Toxicity in Dopaminergic Cell Line: Implication for Parkinson's Disease.
Neurotox Res
April 2023
Department of Pharmacology, Howard University College of Medicine, 520 W Street, Washington, NWDC, 20059, USA.
Article Synopsis
- Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons, primarily due to aging, with both environmental and genetic factors playing a role in its development.
- Research has shown that butyrate (BUT) and dihydromyricetin (DHM) can protect neuroblastoma cells from neurotoxic effects caused by salsolinol (SALS), indicating their potential as neuroprotectants in PD.
- The protective effects of DHM and BUT work synergistically but can be inhibited by specific GABA antagonists, suggesting they operate through overlapping and distinct mechanisms; however, more research is needed to confirm these findings in living organisms.
Maternal exposure to glyphosate-based herbicide causes changes in the vascular function of offspring adult rats.
Reprod Toxicol
January 2023
Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco, Brazil.
Article Synopsis
- - The study investigates how gestational exposure to glyphosate impacts vascular function in offspring, specifically looking at the role of age and oxidative stress.
- - Pregnant Wistar rats were given glyphosate through drinking water, and their offspring's aorta responses to certain substances were tested at 3, 6, and 12 months, revealing altered relaxation responses to acetylcholine and unique reactions to phenylephrine in the glyphosate-exposed groups.
- - Findings suggest that oxidative stress from glyphosate exposure can lead to lasting vascular changes, indicating that current safety levels of glyphosate during pregnancy warrant reevaluation.
The Treatment of Parkinson's Disease with Sodium Oxybate.
Curr Mol Pharmacol
May 2023
Department of Psychiatry, Baycrest Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Article Synopsis
- Sodium Oxybate (SO) may protect dopaminergic neurons in Parkinson's disease by supplying energy, reducing calcium activity, and inhibiting harmful glutamate release.
- SO also acts as an antioxidant by generating NADPH, which helps combat oxidative stress and maintain cell health, particularly in the context of neuronal degeneration.
- Clinical studies suggest that SO can improve daytime alertness in PD patients and, with long-term use, could potentially delay disease onset and progression by addressing key factors contributing to neuron damage.
Treatment of Poorly Responsive Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate Withdrawal With Baclofen: A Case Report.
Cureus
June 2022
Internal Medicine, Geisinger Health System, Scranton, USA.
Article Synopsis
- GHB is a sedative commonly misused for its euphoric and relaxing effects, leading to potential intoxication and dependence.
- The case report details a 57-year-old man's 11-day hospitalization due to GHB withdrawal symptoms and highlights the supportive care treatments provided.
- A novel approach was implemented by using baclofen, a muscle relaxant, to help speed up the reversal of sedation and manage the patient's GHB toxicity.
Treatment of γ-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) Overdose with the GABA Antagonist SGS742.
J Pharmacol Exp Ther
May 2022
Pharmaceutical Sciences, University at Buffalo, United States
Article Synopsis
- High doses of the GABA receptor partial agonist GHB can lead to deadly respiratory depression, but GABA receptor antagonists may be a potential treatment.
- Preliminary studies tested a drug called SGS742 for reversing GHB’s respiratory effects, showing effectiveness even when administered up to 2 hours after GHB.
- While SGS742 reversed respiratory issues, it also caused side effects like tremors and seizures, indicating the need for further research on safe treatment strategies for GHB overdoses.
Amphetamine toxicity masked by concomitant γ-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) ingestion.
Am J Emerg Med
August 2022
Department of Critical Care Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan; Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei City, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Injury Prevention and Control, College of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei City, Taiwan. Electronic address:
Article Synopsis
- - A 24-year-old male patient presented unconsciousness due to a combination of amphetamine and gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) use, with symptoms of amphetamine toxicity surfacing after GHB effects wore off.
- - Upon admission, the patient had abnormal vital signs and respiratory acidosis, requiring intubation and transfer to the intensive care unit; he later became agitated and developed severe respiratory issues.
- - Following recognition of amphetamine presence through toxicology and treatment with high doses of benzodiazepines, the patient improved and was discharged after 8 days, highlighting the complexities of polydrug abuse in clinical contexts.
Clinical effect of ethanol co-use in patients with acute drug toxicity involving the use of central nervous system depressant recreational drugs.
Eur J Emerg Med
August 2022
Division of Clinical Toxicology and Poison Control Centre Munich, Department of Internal Medicine II, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Germany.
Article Synopsis
- Patients using recreational drugs often mix them with ethanol, a CNS depressant, but its impact on acute toxicity is not well understood.
- A retrospective study analyzed 43,633 emergency department cases involving CNS depressants, finding that nearly 50% co-ingested ethanol.
- Results showed that co-use increases the severity of symptoms, necessitating more medical treatment and intensive care admissions, particularly in cases involving opioids or GHB/GBL.
Adsorption of copper, and zinc onto novel Ca-alginate-biochar composite prepared by biochars produced from pyrolysis of groundnut husk.
Int J Phytoremediation
October 2022
Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey.
Article Synopsis
- Alginate-based composites, specifically groundnut husk biochar and calcium alginate, are being studied for their effectiveness as adsorbents because they are biocompatible, non-toxic, and affordable.
- Two types of composites (CA-GHB1 and CA-GHB2) were synthesized and evaluated for their ability to remove copper (Cu(II)) and zinc (Zn(II)) from water, demonstrating varying adsorption capacities.
- The study analyzed factors impacting adsorption kinetics and equilibrium, revealing that the adsorption occurs physically, and the process is thermodynamically non-spontaneous and endothermic.
Current Insights on the Impact of Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) Abuse.
Subst Abuse Rehabil
February 2022
Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
Article Synopsis
- Recreational use of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is increasing, particularly among specific high-risk groups, despite being less common than other substances, leading to more cases of related toxicity in emergency settings.
- GHB acts on both its own receptors and GABA receptors, with effects felt quickly after ingestion, but carries risks of acute toxicity, particularly when mixed with other drugs, and withdrawal can require significant medical intervention.
- The management of GHB-related issues, including detection and treatment of withdrawal, particularly in high-risk populations, is still evolving, with ongoing research needed to improve understanding and methods of care.
Evaluating the risk of toxicity and adverse drug interactions involving recreational GHB use and prescribed drugs.
Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol
December 2021
Unit of Forensic Toxicology, Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Excellence of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University of Ancona, Ancona, Italy.
Article Synopsis
- GHB is a naturally occurring small molecule in the human CNS and is used medically as sodium oxybate to treat narcolepsy and assist with alcohol detoxification, but it is also abused, particularly by bodybuilders.
- The article discusses the risks of recreational GHB use, highlighting its presence in emergency cases and the complexities involved in forensic analysis due to its dual effects and interaction with various neuronal systems.
- Forensic toxicology faces challenges in distinguishing GHB concentrations in biological samples, making prompt sampling critical for detecting recent use, especially in cases related to sexual assault.
Increasing emergency department attendances in central London with methamphetamine toxicity and associated harms.
Emerg Med J
June 2022
Clinical Toxicology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
Article Synopsis
- Methamphetamine use has significantly increased in central London, with presentations to emergency departments rising from 4 cases in 2005 to 294 in 2018, indicating a growing public health issue.
- The majority of cases from 2014 to 2018 involved male individuals (94.9%) with an average age of 35.1, and common symptoms included agitation, anxiety, and hallucinations.
- Co-use of GHB/GBL with methamphetamine was prevalent in over half of the cases, leading to more severe health outcomes and a greater need for intensive care.