[A new drug reaches Switzerland: coma after intake of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB)].

The new recreational drug, gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB, "liquid ecstasy"), reached Switzerland in 1998. We describe two cases from the city of Zurich. In both of them the subjects were profoundly unconscious and needed hospitalization after intake of a colourless liquid. Both patients recovered after a few hours, rapidly and without after-effects. Gamma-hydoxybutyrate is abused mainly for its euphorigenic and sedative properties by young people in discos, at raves, or on the drug scene. It is also taken as an alleged anabolic agent among bodybuilders. Criminals use it to narcotise potential victims. We summarise its effects, adverse effects, diagnosis, treatment, toxicology, pharmacology, and medical applications.