Uses
1,4-Butanediol is used industrially as a solvent and in the manufacture of some types of plastics and fibers. In organic chemistry, 1,4-butanediol is used for the synthesis of ?-butyrolactone (GBL). In the presence of phosphoric acid and high temperature, it dehydrates to the important solvent tetrahydrofuran.[1]. At about 200 °C in the presence of soluble ruthenium catalysts, the diol undergoes dehydrogenation to form butyrolactone.[2]
It is also used as a recreational drug known by some users as "One Comma Four", "One Four Bee" or "One Four B-D-O". It exerts effects similar to ?-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), which is a metabolic product of 1,4-butanediol.[3]
Anecdotal reports indicate that 1,4-butanediol produces a strong toxic feeling not present with GHB when ingested.[4][5] These reports also indicate that it may cause damage to the liver as well as to other vital organs.[6][7] Abuse has also resulted in addiction and death.[8][9][10]
[edit] Pharmacokinetics
1,4-Butanediol is converted into GHB by the enzymes alcohol dehydrogenase and aldehyde dehydrogenase and differing levels of these enzymes may account for differences in effects and side effects between users.[11][12] Because these enzymes are also responsible for metabolizing alcohol there is a strong chance of a dangerous drug interaction.[12][13] Emergency room patients who overdose on both alcohol and 1,4-butanediol often present with symptoms of ethanol intoxication initially and as the ethanol is metabolized the 1,4-butandiol is then able to better compete for the enzyme and a second period of intoxication ensues as the 1,4-butanediol is converted into GHB.[12]
[edit] Pharmacodynamics
1,4-Butanediol seems to have two types of pharmacological actions. The major psychoactive effects of 1,4-butanediol are due to the fact that it is metabolized into GHB, however there is some evidence that 1,4-butanediol may have inherent alcohol-like pharmacological effects that are not due to this conversion.[13]