Citation

Roberts DM, Smith MWH, Gopalakrishnan M, Whittaker G, Day RO. Ann. Emerg. Med. 2011; 58(1): 83-85.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, American College of Emergency Physicians, Publisher Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.annemergmed.2011.01.017

PMID

21435738

Abstract

γ-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and its precursor γ-butyrolactone (GBL) are commonly abused drugs with a narrow therapeutic index. Therefore, overdoses occur readily with recreational use, and severe poisoning can occur after deliberate self-poisoning. We report the sequelae in a patient who ingested a massive dose of GBL, with suicidal intent. Severe metabolic acidosis and an asystolic cardiac arrest were successfully treated with standard resuscitation, supportive care, and continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration. Plasma GHB concentrations were the highest reported to date. The acidosis was attributed to rapid systemic absorption of GBL, followed by rapid metabolism to GHB.

Language: en

Keywords

Humans; Adult; Male; Heart Arrest; Drug Overdose; Suicide, Attempted; Renal Dialysis; Acidosis; 4-Butyrolactone