The vast majority (95–98%) undergoes extensive metabolism in the liver. GHB is broken down through a series of enzymatic pathways. The primary route involves conversion to succinic semialdehyde (SSA) by either GHB dehydrogenase (ADH) or GHB transhydrogenase.

GHB Metabolism. GHB metabolism is complex and involves multiple reversible pathways. Endogenous GHB is formed as part of the GABA shunt pathway within the brain with approximately 1–2% of the pathways’ flux resulting in GHB production .

A major route of metabolism is oxidation by GHB dehydrogenase to give succinic semialdehyde, by which further oxidation is converted into succinic acid, entering the intermediary metabolism and via the Krebs cycle transformed into end-products carbon dioxide and water.

Metabolomics and metabolism studies have recently been used to identify potential biomarkers of GHB exposure. This mini-review provides an overview of GHB-associated metabolic alterations and explores the potential of metabolites for application as biomarkers of GHB exposure.

Jan 8, 2021 · GHB binds to both GHB and GABA B receptors in the brain, with pharmacological/toxicological effects mainly due to GABA B agonist effects. The pharmacokinetics of GHB are complex and include nonlinear absorption, metabolism, tissue uptake, and renal elimination processes.

Feb 10, 2021 · Metabolic alterations in organic acids, amino acids, and polyamines in urine enable discrimination between GHB-ingested animals or humans and controls. The potential of GHB conjugates has been investigated in a variety of clinical settings.

GHB is a naturally occurring compound present in mammalian CNS and peripheral tissues, and a minor metabolite and precursor of γ-amino butyric acid. GHB is also an emerging recreat... ......

Nov 3, 2020 · It is a precursor and metabolite of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA – the inhibitory neurotransmitter). GHB causes rapid onset of CNS and respiratory depression. In overdose the classic presentation is of euphoria followed by coma.

Metabolism. Over 90 % of the administered dose of GHB undergoes hepatic metabolism by several enzymatic pathways and is closely related to GABA metabolism. The main route is oxidation by GHB dehydrogenase to produce succinic semialdehyde, which is …

GHB is metabolized quickly to a number of organic acids and these have been targeted by a team of researchers in Germany, to establish the endogeous concentration ranges in blood and urine, two common biological media for testing.