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A unique mouse model for succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency with implications for gamma hydroxybutyrate intoxication

The Pharmacogenomics Journal volume 2, pages 3–4 (2002)Cite this article

In a recently developed mouse model, both the GABAB receptor antagonist CPG 35348 and taurine, modify the neurotoxic effects of elevated gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB). This finding provides new scope for therapies for GHB drug abuse and succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency (SSADH).

Interest in GHB has increased due to its use as a recreational drug. GHB was first manufactured in the 1960s for use as an anaesthetic agent in children and was subsequently used clinically in the treatment of alcoholism and narcolepsy. Whilst it was an effective anaesthetic agent it failed to provide analgesia and had the unwanted side-affect of seizures leading to it being withdrawn from clinical use. It found its way into ‘health food’ stores for use by body builders. GHB in low doses (10 mg kg−1) results in euphoria, relaxation and sedation. Because of these affects it has become an increasingly popular ‘recreational’ drug of abuse particularly in the dance culture of raves and as a date rape drug. It can be produced relatively easily from its precursor gamma butyrolactone, which is found in solvents. Many home made ‘brews’ can have variable concentration. Overdose results in agitation, myoclonus, seizures and severe depression of consciousness, with fatalities reported. Recent data support evidence that chronic intake can lead to dependence and a withdrawal syndrome. Treatment has primarily been supportive with most overdoses recovering quickly with no long-term sequelae.

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  1. Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia

    H Peters

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  1. H Peters
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Correspondence to H Peters.

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Peters, H. A unique mouse model for succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency with implications for gamma hydroxybutyrate intoxication. Pharmacogenomics J 2, 3–4 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.tpj.6500074

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