Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB): a new drug of misuse.

Accident and Emergency Departments offer a unique opportunity for identifying and monitoring new drugs of misuse. This series of six case reports describes the potentially serious medical complications associated with the use of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) a new drug of misuse on the UK scene. Profound unconsciousness occurred in all cases and despite full (and often rapid) recovery all patients required medical intervention. Adverse effects occurred both when GHB was used alone or in combination with other illicit drugs and alcohol.