GHB withdrawal syndrome: A possible life threatening condition

doi:N/A

eISSN: None / ISSN: None

Netharland Journal of Critical Care

2012, Volume 16, Issue 6 : 213-215

Article

GHB withdrawal syndrome: A possible life threatening condition

van Koppenhagen L.

Paling A.J.

Abstract

Chronic use of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) can cause dependency. Subsequent acute cessation may lead to a variety of withdrawal symptoms. We present the case of a 22-year old man with a life-threatening GHB withdrawal syndrome, including delirium, autonomic dysfunction, rhabdomyolysis and renal failure. As high dosages of sedatives were ineffective, medical GHB was added to the treatment regimen. After 19 days of ICU treatment, he fully recovered. This case report describes the pathophysiology of the GHB withdrawal syndrome and discusses the options for treatment. Copyright © 2012, Nederlandse Vereniging voor Intensive Care. All Rights Reserved.

Keywords

Gamma-hydroxybutyrate

Medical GHB

Renal failure

Rhabdomyolysis

Treatment

Withdrawal

License

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