Citation

Zepf FD, Holtmann M, Duketis E, Maier J, Radeloff D, Schirman S, Wagner A, Poustka F, Wöckel L. Z. Kinder Jugendpsychiatr Psychother. 2009; 37(5): 413-420.

Vernacular Title

Entzugsdelir nach Missbrauch von GHB-(Gamma-Hydroxybutyrat) und seiner Vorstufen:

Affiliation

Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie und -psychotherapie, RWTH Universität Aachen.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Verlag Hans Huber)

DOI

10.1024/1422-4917.37.5.413

PMID

19739059

Abstract

Background: The chronic abuse of Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) as a designer drug as well as it's physiological precursors Gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL) and 1,4-Butandiole (1,4-BD) confronts child and adolescent psychiatrists with new challenges. The acute withdrawal of GHB with its cardiovascular and delirant symptoms is of particular importance for child and adolescent psychiatrists. Methods: In the present paper theoretical and biological aspects of acute GHB-/GBL-/1,4-BD-withdrawal syndrome are presented, and selected cases are discussed as regards potential treatment. Results: High dose treatment with benzodiazepines was successful in some cases of acute GHB-/GBL-/1,4-BD-withdrawal syndrome. Complications were severe dystonia under neuroleptic treatment, and also side-effects of treatment with benzodiazepines. Further problems were vegetative symptoms, electrocardiographic changes, rhabdomyolysis, acute renal failure, and death. Conclusion: Acute GHB-withdrawal syndrome is a life-threatening condition which requires immediate intensive care treatment along with continuous monitoring of vital parameters. As acute GHB-withdrawal syndrome can present with symptoms close to psychotic episodes or acute alcohol withdrawal this condition is relevant for child and adolescent psychiatrists.

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