Consequences of 1,4-Butanediol Misuse: A Review.

Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), along with its precursors, 1,4-butanediol (1,4-BD) and gamma-butyrolactone (GBL), are potent central depressant agents widely illicitly used for their euphoric and relaxant effects. The article presents a review of the literature on the 1,4-BD misuse, the clinical picture of intoxication, development of addiction and delirium. The available evidence shows that 1,4-BD is a substance with its own psychoactive effects, a high addiction potential and potentially severe withdrawal symptoms.