‘CHEMSEX’ GAMMA HYDROXYBUTYRATE (GHB) OVERDOSE: A CASE REPORT

Abstract

Introduction: Gamma Hydroxybutyrate (GHB), which is commonly known as ‘date-rape drug’, now is also famous for ‘chemsex’, a sexual activity engaged under the influence of a drug to enhance pleasure, mostly among men who have sex with men (MSM).

Case: Here, we present a case, possibly the first one in Malaysia, with GHB overdose by a 35-year-old gentleman who presented with a life-threatening condition and required acute care admission. He was brought in unconscious after 4 hours of taking an unknown medication. Upon arrival, his BP was 128/70mmHg, heart rate was 73bpm, and saturation was 100% on 15L/min oxygen supplement. Both pupils were reactive at 2mm size. Lungs were clear, and abdomen was soft and non-tender. He was subsequently intubated for airway protection. Blood gases and other blood investigations were at an acceptable range. No other toxidromes were observed, and the bedside urine drug test was unremarkable. ECG was sinus rhythm. CT brain also was normal. Our team was initially clueless until further history from his partner revealed that he had ingested 10ml or approximately 16grams of GHB in a clear liquid form where he bought online for his recreational use. The patient has an underlying retroviral disease and is an active MSM with a single partner. National Poison Centre was immediately rung, and our team was told that patient was only required supportive treatment. He was discharged well after 48 hours of intensive care monitoring.

Discussion: As GHB also has a sedative-hypnotic effect, its overdose can be easily mistaken with other common drugs such as opioids or benzodiazepine. However, it is distinguishable by the rapid recovery of clinical conditions because of its short plasma elimination half-life. The toxidromes, if one takes more than 5grams, are central nervous system depression, pupillary changes, bradycardia, and Cheyne-Stokes respiration. There is no antidote available, and the management is limited to supportive care. 

Conclusion: Even though GHB consumption has been highlighted in the past 15 years, overdose cases are still uncommon here. Emergency medical personnel should be aware of its illicit use especially among a certain group of people, the toxidrome presentations and mimics.