title: Physostigmine in the treatment of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid overdose.
abstract: The widespread abuse of the recreational drug gamma-hydroxybutyric acid has resulted in several reports of overdose leading to coma. The use of a short-acting anticholinesterase agent such as physostigmine as a potential reversal agent has been proposed previously. We report 2 cases of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid-induced coma that rapidly reversed with intravenous administration of physostigmine.
authors.affiliation: North Texas Medical Group, Colony 75056-2062, USA.
authors.forename: S W
authors.initials: SW
authors.lastname: Yates
authors.forename: A J
authors.initials: AJ
authors.lastname: Viera
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002800:Cholinesterase Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D062787:Drug Overdose / Q000188:drug therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006885:Hydroxybutyrates / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male; D010830:Physostigmine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D002800:Cholinesterase Inhibitors; D006885:Hydroxybutyrates; C111420:4-hydroxybutyric acid; D010830:Physostigmine