gamma-Hydroxybutyric acid in the treatment of alcohol dependence: a double-blind study.

Abstract

The effect of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid on alcohol consumption and alcohol craving in alcoholics was investigated in a randomized double-blind study versus placebo. Patients were treated as outpatients during a three month period either with gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (50 mg/kg/day, divided into three daily doses) or with placebo. Of the 82 alcoholics that entered the study, 71 completed it, 36 in the gamma-hydroxybutyric acid and 35 in the placebo group. Alcohol consumption was assessed by the subject's self report. At the 3rd month of treatment, 11 patients in the gamma-hydroxybutyric acid group referred to be abstinent and 15 referred controlled drinking; while in the placebo group only two and six patients referred abstinence and controlled drinking, respectively. Serum-gammaglutamyl-transferase activity correlated with the admitted alcohol consumption. Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid treatment decreased alcohol craving during the 3 months of treatment. Transient side effects were noted by six patients on gamma-hydroxybutyric acid and two on placebo. The results suggest that gamma-hydroxybutyric acid may be useful in the treatment of alcohol dependence.

• Authors: L Gallimberti, M Ferri, S D Ferrara, F Fadda, G L Gessa
• Journal: Alcoholism, clinical and experimental research (Alcohol Clin Exp Res) Vol. 16 Issue 4 Pg. 673-6 (Aug 1992) ISSN: 0145-6008 [Print] England
• PMID: 1326902 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial)

Chemical References

• Sodium Oxybate

Topics

• Adult
• Alcoholism (rehabilitation)
• Double-Blind Method
• Female
• Follow-Up Studies
• Humans
• Liver Function Tests
• Male
• Sodium Oxybate (administration & dosage, adverse effects)
• Substance Abuse Treatment Centers
• Substance Withdrawal Syndrome (diagnosis)