gamma-hydroxybutyrate

gamma-hydroxybutyrate (gm-h-drks-byt-rt)

n. Abbr. GHB

A compound that is a metabolite of gamma-aminobutyric acid, used illegally for its euphoric and sedative effects.

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gamma-hydroxybutyrate (gyaˈ·m-hī·drkˈ·sē·byōōˑ·t·rāt),

n uses: induce sleep; stimulate release of growth hormone; treat narcolepsy; weight control; and use for recreation as a euphoric and hallucinogen; precautions: seizure disorders, bradycardia, cardiovascular disease, Cushing's syndrome, severe hypertension, hyperprolactinemia. Not to be used with benzodiazepines, alcohol, opioids, skeletal muscle relaxants, barbiturates, anticonvulsants, antihistamines, protease inhibitors, major tranquilizers. Can produce hallucinogenic or euphoric states; can cause nausea, depression, vertigo, respiratory distress, lightheadedness, vomiting, abnormal muscle movements, confusion, drowsiness, lack of coordination, loss of bladder control, diarrhea, temporary amnesia, loss of consciousness, seizure-like activity, somnambulism and coma; can become addictive. Also called
cherry meth, liquid X, fantasy, organic quaalude, GBH, salty water, Georgia home boy, scoop, sleep-500, soap, liquid E, somatomaz, liquid ecstasy, and
vita-G.