gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL)
Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) is a prodrug to gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), a central nervous system depressant that has sedative, anesthetic, and euphoric effects. GBL is a colorless, odorless, and water-soluble liquid that is commonly used as an industrial solvent and cleaner.
GBL is rapidly converted to GHB in the body, and as a result, it is often used illicitly as a recreational drug. GHB and its precursors, including GBL, have been associated with a range of harmful effects, including dizziness, nausea, vomiting, seizures, coma, and death.
GBL is a controlled substance in many countries and is illegal to possess, distribute, or sell without a license. It is important to note that GBL and other GHB precursors are not intended for human consumption and are not approved for use as medications. It is also important to be aware of the potential for misuse and addiction associated with GBL and GHB. Anyone who is struggling with addiction to GBL or GHB should seek professional help as soon as possible.
gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL, a prodrug to GHB) use
GBL is primarily used in industrial applications as a solvent and cleaning agent. However, due to its conversion to GHB in the body, it is also used illicitly as a recreational drug.
GBL is known to have euphoric and sedative effects, and is sometimes used as a party drug or to enhance sexual experiences. However, the use of GBL as a recreational drug is illegal in many countries and can be dangerous due to the potential for overdose and addiction.
GBL is sometimes used as a performance-enhancing drug among athletes, as it is thought to enhance growth hormone secretion and promote muscle building. However, the use of GBL in this way is also illegal and can have serious health consequences.
It is important to note that GBL and other GHB precursors are not intended for human consumption and are not approved for use as medications. The risks associated with their use as recreational drugs or performance-enhancing substances can be significant, including the potential for addiction, overdose, and death. Anyone who is struggling with addiction to GBL or GHB should seek professional help as soon as possible.
gamma-Butyrolactone effects
Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) is a prodrug to gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), and its effects are similar to those of GHB.
When taken in small doses, GBL can produce feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and sociability. It can also cause dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. At higher doses, GBL can cause sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and even death.
GBL can also have negative long-term effects on the brain, including memory impairment, cognitive dysfunction, and mood disorders. Regular use of GBL or GHB can lead to physical dependence and addiction, as well as withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, and tremors.
GBL is a potent central nervous system depressant, and its effects can be unpredictable and dangerous. It is important to avoid using GBL or GHB recreationally, and to seek medical attention immediately if someone is suspected of overdosing on these substances.
gamma-Butyrolactone contraindications
Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) is not intended for human consumption and is not approved for use as a medication. However, it is sometimes used illicitly as a recreational drug.
GBL and its metabolite, gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), are potent central nervous system depressants, and their use can have serious health consequences. There are several contraindications to using GBL or GHB, including:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The use of GBL or GHB during pregnancy or while breastfeeding can harm the developing fetus or infant.
- Alcohol or other depressant use: The combined use of GBL or GHB with alcohol or other depressants can increase the risk of respiratory depression, coma, and death.
- Liver or kidney disease: GBL and GHB are metabolized by the liver and excreted by the kidneys, and their use can be dangerous for individuals with liver or kidney disease.
- Mental health conditions: GBL and GHB can worsen symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.
- Medications: The use of GBL or GHB with certain medications, such as antidepressants or antipsychotics, can be dangerous and increase the risk of adverse effects.
It is important to note that GBL and GHB are not intended for human consumption and are illegal in many countries. The use of these substances can be dangerous and lead to addiction, overdose, and death. Anyone who is struggling with addiction to GBL or GHB should seek professional help as soon as possible.
gamma-Butyrolactone adverse effects
Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) is not intended for human consumption and is not approved for use as a medication. However, it is sometimes used illicitly as a recreational drug.
GBL and its metabolite, gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), are potent central nervous system depressants, and their use can have serious adverse effects. Some of the potential adverse effects of GBL use include:
- Dizziness, nausea, and vomiting: These are common early symptoms of GBL use.
- Respiratory depression: GBL can cause slow and shallow breathing, which can lead to respiratory failure and death.
- Coma: GBL can cause a state of unconsciousness, which can be life-threatening.
- Seizures: GBL can trigger seizures, which can also be life-threatening.
- Memory impairment: Regular use of GBL or GHB can lead to memory loss and cognitive dysfunction.
- Mood disorders: GBL or GHB use can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.
- Addiction and withdrawal: Regular use of GBL or GHB can lead to physical dependence and addiction, as well as withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, and tremors.
It is important to note that GBL and GHB are not intended for human consumption and are illegal in many countries. The use of these substances can be dangerous and lead to addiction, overdose, and death. Anyone who is struggling with addiction to GBL or GHB should seek professional help as soon as possible.
gamma-Butyrolactone overdose
Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) is not intended for human consumption and is not approved for use as a medication. However, it is sometimes used illicitly as a recreational drug.
GBL and its metabolite, gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), are potent central nervous system depressants, and an overdose can be life-threatening. Symptoms of a GBL overdose include:
- Unconsciousness or coma: GBL can cause a state of unconsciousness, which can be life-threatening.
- Respiratory depression: GBL can cause slow and shallow breathing, which can lead to respiratory failure and death.
- Seizures: GBL can trigger seizures, which can also be life-threatening.
- Hypotension: GBL can cause low blood pressure, which can lead to shock and organ failure.
- Bradycardia: GBL can cause a slow heart rate, which can also be life-threatening.
If someone is suspected of overdosing on GBL, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Emergency treatment for a GBL overdose typically involves supportive care to maintain vital signs and prevent complications such as respiratory failure. Naloxone may be used to reverse the respiratory depressant effects of GBL, although its efficacy in this context is uncertain.
It is important to note that GBL and GHB are not intended for human consumption and are illegal in many countries. The use of these substances can be dangerous and lead to addiction, overdose, and death. Anyone who is struggling with addiction to GBL or GHB should seek professional help as soon as possible.
gamma-Butyrolactone drug interactions
Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) is not intended for human consumption and is not approved for use as a medication. However, it is sometimes used illicitly as a recreational drug.
GBL and its metabolite, gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), can interact with other drugs and cause dangerous effects. Some of the potential drug interactions with GBL or GHB include:
- Alcohol: The combined use of GBL or GHB with alcohol can increase the risk of respiratory depression, coma, and death.
- Other central nervous system depressants: The use of GBL or GHB with other central nervous system depressants, such as benzodiazepines, opioids, or barbiturates, can increase the risk of respiratory depression, coma, and death.
- Antidepressants: The use of GBL or GHB with certain antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition.
- Antipsychotics: The use of GBL or GHB with certain antipsychotic medications can increase the risk of adverse effects, including respiratory depression and sedation.
- Stimulants: The use of GBL or GHB with stimulants, such as cocaine or amphetamines, can increase the risk of adverse effects, including agitation, confusion, and seizures.
It is important to note that GBL and GHB are not intended for human consumption and are illegal in many countries. The use of these substances can be dangerous and lead to addiction, overdose, and death. Anyone who is struggling with addiction to GBL or GHB should seek professional help as soon as possible. If you are taking any medications or have a medical condition, it is important to discuss the risks and potential drug interactions with your healthcare provider.
gamma-Butyrolactone pharmacology
Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) is a cyclic lactone and a precursor of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB). GBL is rapidly metabolized in the body to GHB, which is the active form of the drug.
GHB is a potent central nervous system depressant that acts on the GABA-B receptor. GHB enhances the release of GABA, the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, which leads to a decrease in neuronal activity and a sedative effect. GHB also has effects on other neurotransmitter systems, including dopamine and serotonin.
GBL and GHB are both rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak effects occurring within 30-60 minutes. The half-life of GHB is short, ranging from 20 to 60 minutes, and the drug is rapidly eliminated from the body. GHB is metabolized primarily in the liver by oxidation to succinic semialdehyde, which is further metabolized to succinic acid and eliminated in the urine.
The effects of GBL or GHB use can vary widely depending on the dose, individual characteristics, and other factors. At low to moderate doses, GBL or GHB can produce a state of relaxation, euphoria, and reduced inhibitions. At higher doses, GBL or GHB can cause sedation, loss of consciousness, respiratory depression, and even coma or death.
It is important to note that GBL and GHB are not intended for human consumption and are illegal in many countries. The use of these substances can be dangerous and lead to addiction, overdose, and death. Anyone who is struggling with addiction to GBL or GHB should seek professional help as soon as possible.
gamma-Butyrolactone chemistry
Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) is a cyclic lactone with the chemical formula C4H6O2. It is also known as 4-butyrolactone or 2(3H)-furanone. GBL is a clear, colorless, and oily liquid with a slightly bitter taste and a characteristic odor.
GBL is a hygroscopic compound, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from the air. It is miscible with water and most organic solvents, and it has a high boiling point of 204°C. GBL is a versatile chemical that has many industrial and commercial applications, including as a solvent for polymers, resins, and coatings; as a cleaning agent; and as a chemical intermediate in the production of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and other specialty chemicals.
GBL is also a prodrug for gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), which means that it is converted to GHB in the body through metabolic processes. GHB is a potent central nervous system depressant with sedative, hypnotic, and euphoric effects. However, GHB is also associated with a high risk of overdose and addiction, and it is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States.
It is important to note that GBL and GHB are not intended for human consumption and are illegal in many countries. The use of these substances can be dangerous and lead to addiction, overdose, and death. Anyone who is struggling with addiction to GBL or GHB should seek professional help as soon as possible.
gamma-Butyrolactone history
Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) was first synthesized in 1860 by the French chemist Charles-Adolphe Wurtz. However, it was not until the mid-20th century that GBL became commercially available and found widespread use in industry and commerce.
GBL has many industrial and commercial applications, including as a solvent for polymers, resins, and coatings; as a cleaning agent; and as a chemical intermediate in the production of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and other specialty chemicals. GBL is also used as a recreational drug and as a date rape drug due to its sedative and hypnotic effects.
In the late 1990s, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the sale of GBL for human consumption due to its association with abuse, addiction, and overdose. The FDA also classified GBL as a Schedule I controlled substance, making it illegal to possess, distribute, or use for any purpose.
Today, GBL and its metabolite gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) are still used illicitly as recreational drugs, often in combination with other substances such as alcohol or stimulants. However, the use of GBL and GHB can be dangerous and lead to addiction, overdose, and death. It is important for individuals to seek professional help if they are struggling with addiction to GBL or GHB.
gamma-Butyrolactone society and culture
Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) has a controversial reputation in society and culture due to its association with recreational drug use, addiction, and illegal activities such as date rape.
GBL is often used as a recreational drug due to its sedative, hypnotic, and euphoric effects. However, GBL can be addictive and lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms. GBL is also associated with a high risk of overdose, especially when combined with other substances such as alcohol or stimulants.
GBL is also used as a date rape drug due to its ability to cause sedation, confusion, and memory loss. The use of GBL or its metabolite gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) in sexual assault is a serious problem, and individuals should be aware of the potential risks associated with accepting drinks from strangers or leaving their drinks unattended.
GBL is illegal in many countries, including the United States, Canada, and many European countries. In the United States, GBL is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, making it illegal to possess, distribute, or use for any purpose.
It is important for individuals to understand the risks associated with GBL and other illicit drugs and to seek professional help if they are struggling with addiction or other drug-related problems. Treatment for drug addiction may involve a combination of behavioral therapies, medication-assisted treatment, and support from healthcare professionals, family, and friends.