Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and gamma-butyrolactone (GBL): analysis of overdose cases reported to the Swiss Toxicological Information Centre.

We analysed 141 cases of g-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) and g-butyrolactone (GBL) intoxication reported by physicians to the Swiss Toxicological Information Centre between 1995 and 2003. GHB and GBL intoxication are associated with considerable morbidity. Multiple drug use is common. Overdosing frequently results in non-reactive coma, which accounts for the severity of the intoxication and the costs occasioned by management.