Gamma hydroxy butyrate poisoning

Article Abstract:

Gamma hydroxy butyrate (GHB) is normally present in the body; it is a breakdown product of a neurotransmitter (substance which conducts nerve messages). GHB itself has effects upon nerves, causing an increase in brain levels of dopamine (an important neurotransmitter) and acting on the opioid system (the body's system for managing pain). GHB is sold in health food stores and is therefore not subject to regulation. Some of the names it is sold under are Sodium Oxybate, Sodium Oxybutyrate, Gamma Hydroxybutyrate Sodium, Gamm-OH, 4-Hydroxy Butyrate, Gamma Hydrate, and Somatomax PM. Recently its use has been associated with eruptions of gastrointestinal illness, seizures, and central nervous system (CNS; brain and spinal cord) depression. Experimentally, GHB is used to treat narcolepsy (a disease characterized by recurrent attacks of drowsiness or sleep). GHB is promoted illegally to aid in weight control, sleep problems, for anabolic (body-building) effects, and for euphoria. It is claimed that GHB promotes growth hormone release, a claim aimed at body builders. Increasing doses of GHB can cause amnesia, poor muscle tone, sleepiness, and coma. Other effects may include nausea, dizziness, confusion, depressed breathing or heart rate, and seizure-like activity. No deaths from its use have been reported. Dizziness may last up to two weeks, but most symptoms subside within eight hours. The effects of GHB on brain and respiratory depression may be increased by alcohol. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Complications and side effects, Health foods, Natural foods, Dietary supplements, Sodium Oxybate (Dietary supplement), Sodium Oxybutyrate (Dietary supplement), Gamma Hydroxybutyrate Sodium (Dietary supplement), Gamm-OH (Dietary supplement), 4-Hydroxy Butyrate (Dietary supplement), Gamma Hydrate (Dietary supplement), Somatomax PM (Dietary supplement)

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Treatment of nerve gas poisoning

Article Abstract:

Nerve poisons can cause convulsions, unconsciousness, paralysis, and the cessation of breathing. However, treatment with drugs is possible. The poison gases can be inhaled and the liquids absorbed through the skin. Most nerve poisons work by causing over-stimulation, followed by paralysis, of muscles and nerves. If a patient's skin has been exposed, the patient should be washed with soap and water or a dilution of bleach. Injections of atropine and pralidoxime chloride can be effective treatments and pyridostigmine bromide can prevent poisoning if taken before exposure. Anticonvulsant drugs can also reduce brain damage from poisoning. The effectiveness of gas masks depends on various factors including the mask design and storage, proximity of the wearer to the source, type of poison, and wind speed. The most effective masks are those that securely cover the entire face.

Health aspects, Care and treatment, Poisoning, Nerve gas, Nerve agents

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