Gamma Butyrolactone (gbl) - Ethanol Interaction
Herbal: Gamma Butyrolactone (gbl)
Also Known As: 2-3 dihydro furanone
Drug: Ethanol
Brand names:
Ethanol
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 26, 2024
Interaction Details
Ethanol is classified as belonging to the following category: Alcohol (Ethanol)
Concomitant use of alcohol may increase the adverse effects of GBL.
GBL is metabolized to gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB). In humans, concomitant use of GBL or GHB and alcohol increases the risk of adverse effects, possibly by reducing the elimination of GHB. Concomitant use of GHB and alcohol may also cause additive respiratory and central nervous system depression.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
PossibleInteraction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
References
- Soderling E, Le Bell A, Kirstila V, Tenovuo J. Betaine-containing toothpaste relieves subjective symptoms of dry mouth. Acta Odontol Scand 1998;56:65-9.
- Anon. FDA alert on misuse of consumer products containing GHB, GBL and BD. Food and Drug Administration, Rockville, MD. June 15, 1999.
- Thai D, Dyer JE, Benowitz NL, Haller CA. Gamma-hydroxybutyrate and ethanol effects and interactions in humans. J Clin Psychopharmacol. 2006 Oct;26(5):524-9.
- Heytens L, Neels H, Van Regenmortel N, et al. Near-fatal persistent anion- and osmolal-gap acidosis due to massive gamma-butyrolactone/ethanol intoxication. Ann Clin Biochem 2015;52(Pt 2):283-7.
- Product information for Xyrem. Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Palo Alto, CA. March 2022.
Gamma Butyrolactone (gbl) Overview
Gamma butyrolactone (GBL) is a chemical compound found in a wide range of industrial products, including cleaning solutions and nail varnish. Its main use is as a solvent and reagent. If consumed, GBL is metabolized to gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), a potent sedative that can produce relaxation, euphoria and hallucinations. GHB is commonly known as the 'date-rape drug'. The use of GBL for medicinal purposes is not recommended. GBL is federally classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States, making its production, sale, and possession illegal.
Gamma Butyrolactone (gbl) - More Interactions
Gamma Butyrolactone (gbl) interacts with 268 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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