[Gamma-hydroxybutyrat (GHB)-dependence and -withdrawal in the case of previous alcohol dependence].

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

gamma-Hydroxybutyrat (GHB) is used medically for narcolepsy and as a narcotic. It is also a rare illegal drug. In this case report the development of a GHB-dependency against the background of a primary alcohol dependency is described.

METHODS:

Based on established alcohol withdrawal scales (AWSS by Wetterling, CIWA) and neuropsychological testing procedures (CGI, GAF, SKID-II, PISQ, analog-scale for Craving), the initial situation, the development of psychopathological findings, and the course of detoxification were shown.

RESULTS/CONCLUSION:

The combined detoxication of GHB and alcohol was successfully finished by a reduction schedule of diazepam. Withdrawal-assessment scales for alcohol were helpful, but show limitations for GHB-withdrawal symptoms. The patient suffers, according to ICD-10, from a multiple drug dependence (alcohol, GHB, abstinence from amphetamines). Symptoms of insomnia, major depression, and generalized anxiety disorder can be associated with the use of GHB.

• Authors: Christoph Richter, Alexander Romanowski, Thorsten Kienast
• Journal: Psychiatrische Praxis (Psychiatr Prax) Vol. 36 Issue 7 Pg. 345-7 (Oct 2009) ISSN: 1439-0876 [Electronic] Germany
• Vernacular Title: Gamma-Hydroxybutyrat (GHB)-Abhängigkeit und -Entzug bei vorbestehender Alkoholabhängigkeit.
• PMID: 19173170 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)
• Copyright: Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart. New York.

Chemical References

• Adjuvants, Anesthesia
• Illicit Drugs
• Sodium Oxybate

Topics

• Adjuvants, Anesthesia (adverse effects)
• Adult
• Alcoholism (psychology, rehabilitation)
• Comorbidity
• Drug Tolerance
• Humans
• Illicit Drugs
• Male
• Neuropsychological Tests
• Sodium Oxybate
• Substance Withdrawal Syndrome (diagnosis, rehabilitation)
• Substance-Related Disorders (psychology, rehabilitation)
• Treatment Outcome