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how many of you think 1,4 butandiol is safe?
- Thread starter CLEMDOG
- Start date
Read this: http://leda.lycaeum.org/Documents/1,4-Butanediol_Toxicity.15209.shtml
Since GHB has become a scheduled drug and GBL a watched chemical, many people have turned to 1,4-butanediol as an alternative. The common assumption is that 1,4-butanediol is pharmacologically equivalent to GHB because it converts to GHB in the body. This is a dangerous and untrue assumption.
1,4-Butanediol is converted to GHB by the liver by the same enzymes which metabolize alcohol. The conversion is not instantaneous. When you drink 1,4-butanediol, it first goes through your digestive system unchanged, and is absorbed into the blood stream. It then circulates throughout your system, until it reaches your liver. In the liver, the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase first converts 1,4-butanediol into the intermediate aldehyde gamma-hydroxybutyraldehyde. This aldehyde then circulates around the body until another liver enzyme, aldehyde dehydrogenase, oxidizes it into GHB. The process of conversion from 1,4-butanediol to GHB is not instantaneous, as is evidenced by the much longer lasting effects of 1,4-butanediol compared to GHB. People who have lower levels of the enzymes involved (such as Native Americans) will take even longer to convert the chemical. If alcohol is in the system at the same time as 1,4-butanediol, the enzymes will work on the alcohol first, leaving the 1,4-butanediol circulating in the system even longer (see "1,4-Butanediol and ethanol compete for degradation in rat brain and liver in vitro" by F. Poldrugo and O. C. Snead).
It is foolish to assume that 1,4-butanediol has no effects of its own on the body. One paper by F. Poldrugo and O. C. Snead ("1,4 Butanediol, gamma-hydroxybutyric acid and ethanol: relationships and interactions.") describes a study which shows that 1,4-butanediol has a depressant effect similar to alcohol's which is completely independant of its conversion to GHB. It also should be kept in mind that 1,4-butanediol is chemically very similar to the highly toxic ethylene glycol and propylene glycol - both of which are better known as anti-freeze.
There have been few studies on the safety of 1,4-butanediol. The one which is most often cited to show that it is safe is "TOX-54: NTP Summary Report on the Metabolism, Disposition and Toxicity of 1,4-Butanediol" produced by the US National Toxicology Program. It needs to be stressed that this study was done to determine the risks of exposure to it as an industrial chemical - factory workers spilling it on themselves, for example. It in no way was intended to study the safety of deliberately drinking it on a regular basis as a recreational drug. Various animal experiments have also been done to evaluate its safety as an industrial chemical, or as a trace preservative in things such as cosmetics. There have never been any studies done on long term use of the chemical as a drug, and the risks of such use are completely unknown. While GHB has been used by humans for decades, and has been studied as a drug, it is only in the past 3 or 4 years that 1,4-butanediol has been used by people as a drug.
That being said, there is a huge and growing body of anecdotal evidence that 1,4-butanediol is quite toxic when used long term in recreational doses, and that it has a very different pharmacological profile from GHB. I myself experimented with 1,4-butanediol for several months, and experienced some very frightening results. I originally wrote about my experiences with 1,4-butanediol in a post to the Lycaeum in October, 1999. Since that time, I have seen dozens of reports on the Internet and have heard stories from personal friends who have experienced similar strange reactions to this chemical. I present now a slightly edited version of my report on my experiences with 1,4-butanediol.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1,4-Butanediol (BDO) does metabolize into GHB, but the two do NOT have the same effects. BDO is a much "dirtier" high - alot of alcohol-like dizzyness, a tendency to nausea in higher doses, etc. I used BDO daily for close to a year, and eventually began to notice some long term effects which scared the piss out of me and ended up with me taking my 20 liter drum of BDO and dumping it down my bathtub drain. I am convinced that BDO has its own effects before it metabolizes into GHB, and I am convinced that it does not all metabolize... at least not immediately. I back this up by pointing out how much longer the BDO high lasts compared to GHB. The two drugs feel VERY different to me, and if I were given one or the other in a blind test I could easily distinguish the rather toxic feeling BDO effects from the clean euphoric feeling of GHB. Nausea, vomiting, spinning-room syndrome, etc are all very common with BDO... but pretty rare with GHB except in serious overdoses.
After using it for several months, I began to notice some of the following. Many other BDO users Ive spoken with noticed the same or similar effects, in some cases more severe even. In most cases, these side effects did not develop until after BDO had been used near daily for several months. In some cases, people experienced these effects after only a few weeks of occasional use. Other people report using it for many months without any unusual side effects.
First, there were some skin problems... red, puffy, often itchy skin, sometimes rashlike, most common on my face - this would happen alot. It seemed especially common when waking up in the morning after doing BDO the night before. Sometimes this red puffiness would not be limited to just my skin, but would appear on my eyes as well - often accompanied by jaundice. Oily secretions from the skin, as well as outbreaks of acne, were also common.
Another common effect would be cloudy urine - which is a sign of kidney distress, among other things. Again this would most often happen the morning after using BDO but would happen at random other times as well, fairly commonly.
I experienced stomach pains after use, as have several friends. After seeing how strong of a solvent BDO is (I spilled some down the bottle and it did a pretty good job destroying the label), I can only imagine what this stuff must do to your stomach lining.
Another unusual effect I observed was a sort of coldness in my fingertips, combined with a tendency to clench my fingers, as if I had arthritis.
More disturbing was the constant feeling of fatigue and general malaise that developed towards the end of my BDO use. I felt tired all the time, and didn't feel particularly healthy. This would vary in intensity, sometimes giving me nasty headaches, but the feelings of unhealthiness were near constant.
However the most disturbing effects, the ones which made me decide to throw out almost 20 liters of the poison, were the cardiovascular effects. I began to experience strange chest pains, erratic blood pressure (usually on the high side, leading to headaches like I mentioned), weird heartbeats... frankly it scared the fuck out of me when these effects began to develop. I was running average resting blood pressures between 150/85 and 160/95, and I was only 26 years old at the time. I know of several people who sought medical attention for cardiovascular problems which they believe were caused by using BDO.
At first as these symptoms began to develop, I wondered if they were due to the BDO or if they were weird side effects from quitting smoking a few months prior. Experimentally, I decided to switch to GHB. The red puffy skin effects vanished overnight, and within days the cloudy urine and cardiovascular symptoms all began disappearing, and my blood pressure began dropping back to my normal 125/75. Within 2 or 3 weeks, the unhealthy poisoned feeling lifted.
Another difference is tolerance... GHB produces very little tolerance. BDO, on the other hand, produces a very noticable and strong tolerance. This is probably because it is an alcohol which must be metabolized by the liver into GHB. That means you end up with enzyme induction, and therefore tolerance develops. Although GHB itself can be physically addictive and can produce strong withdrawal symptoms, reports of physical addiction seem much more common with BDO, and the withdrawal symptoms can be quite severe.
One other thing to add... I noticed this a few times on BDO but it has never happened on GHB. Sometimes, with high doses, I would be laying there falling asleep or even totally asleep, and all the sudden feel as if I'd stopped breathing, and would suddenly wake up in a panic state and take a bigloud breath, sort of like the way you breathe in after having been underwater holding your breath for a while. Kinda scary... I've heard a few people mention this happening to them with BDO too. After all, BDO is an alcohol with its own depressant effects that have nothing to do with it converting to GHB (there are studies backing this up on MedLine). GHB may not dangerously depress breathing with normal use, but BDO may have that potential. And besides... we all know how mixing depressants is dangerous. BDO is one that comes mixed - its an alcohol that metabolizes into GHB. In other words, BDO is something like taking your GHB in a shot of vodka.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I stopped using GHB a year ago, mainly because I got bored with it and outgrew it, but also because I felt that it promoted a state of mind where I was numb to the world and apathetic about everything, including my own life. However, I think GHB is a relatively benign drug if used wisely and in moderation. It is probably as safe as drinking alcohol, and may even be easier on the body - though like alcohol, it can be both highly habit forming and physically addictive.
I can't say the same about 1,4-butanediol. I am quite certain that it is probably one of the most toxic drugs to come on the drug scene in a long time. I blame the war on drugs for forcing people to turn to it because stupid laws have made GHB illegal. I'd be willing to wager that future research will show 1,4-butanediol to be quite toxic to the body. In addition, I also found that 1,4-butanediol is a much less enjoyable drug than GHB. It produces a dizzy and somewhat nauseating feel which GHB itself does not. It produces a significant hangover, unlike GHB.
Since GHB has become a scheduled drug and GBL a watched chemical, many people have turned to 1,4-butanediol as an alternative. The common assumption is that 1,4-butanediol is pharmacologically equivalent to GHB because it converts to GHB in the body. This is a dangerous and untrue assumption.
1,4-Butanediol is converted to GHB by the liver by the same enzymes which metabolize alcohol. The conversion is not instantaneous. When you drink 1,4-butanediol, it first goes through your digestive system unchanged, and is absorbed into the blood stream. It then circulates throughout your system, until it reaches your liver. In the liver, the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase first converts 1,4-butanediol into the intermediate aldehyde gamma-hydroxybutyraldehyde. This aldehyde then circulates around the body until another liver enzyme, aldehyde dehydrogenase, oxidizes it into GHB. The process of conversion from 1,4-butanediol to GHB is not instantaneous, as is evidenced by the much longer lasting effects of 1,4-butanediol compared to GHB. People who have lower levels of the enzymes involved (such as Native Americans) will take even longer to convert the chemical. If alcohol is in the system at the same time as 1,4-butanediol, the enzymes will work on the alcohol first, leaving the 1,4-butanediol circulating in the system even longer (see "1,4-Butanediol and ethanol compete for degradation in rat brain and liver in vitro" by F. Poldrugo and O. C. Snead).
It is foolish to assume that 1,4-butanediol has no effects of its own on the body. One paper by F. Poldrugo and O. C. Snead ("1,4 Butanediol, gamma-hydroxybutyric acid and ethanol: relationships and interactions.") describes a study which shows that 1,4-butanediol has a depressant effect similar to alcohol's which is completely independant of its conversion to GHB. It also should be kept in mind that 1,4-butanediol is chemically very similar to the highly toxic ethylene glycol and propylene glycol - both of which are better known as anti-freeze.
There have been few studies on the safety of 1,4-butanediol. The one which is most often cited to show that it is safe is "TOX-54: NTP Summary Report on the Metabolism, Disposition and Toxicity of 1,4-Butanediol" produced by the US National Toxicology Program. It needs to be stressed that this study was done to determine the risks of exposure to it as an industrial chemical - factory workers spilling it on themselves, for example. It in no way was intended to study the safety of deliberately drinking it on a regular basis as a recreational drug. Various animal experiments have also been done to evaluate its safety as an industrial chemical, or as a trace preservative in things such as cosmetics. There have never been any studies done on long term use of the chemical as a drug, and the risks of such use are completely unknown. While GHB has been used by humans for decades, and has been studied as a drug, it is only in the past 3 or 4 years that 1,4-butanediol has been used by people as a drug.
That being said, there is a huge and growing body of anecdotal evidence that 1,4-butanediol is quite toxic when used long term in recreational doses, and that it has a very different pharmacological profile from GHB. I myself experimented with 1,4-butanediol for several months, and experienced some very frightening results. I originally wrote about my experiences with 1,4-butanediol in a post to the Lycaeum in October, 1999. Since that time, I have seen dozens of reports on the Internet and have heard stories from personal friends who have experienced similar strange reactions to this chemical. I present now a slightly edited version of my report on my experiences with 1,4-butanediol.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1,4-Butanediol (BDO) does metabolize into GHB, but the two do NOT have the same effects. BDO is a much "dirtier" high - alot of alcohol-like dizzyness, a tendency to nausea in higher doses, etc. I used BDO daily for close to a year, and eventually began to notice some long term effects which scared the piss out of me and ended up with me taking my 20 liter drum of BDO and dumping it down my bathtub drain. I am convinced that BDO has its own effects before it metabolizes into GHB, and I am convinced that it does not all metabolize... at least not immediately. I back this up by pointing out how much longer the BDO high lasts compared to GHB. The two drugs feel VERY different to me, and if I were given one or the other in a blind test I could easily distinguish the rather toxic feeling BDO effects from the clean euphoric feeling of GHB. Nausea, vomiting, spinning-room syndrome, etc are all very common with BDO... but pretty rare with GHB except in serious overdoses.
After using it for several months, I began to notice some of the following. Many other BDO users Ive spoken with noticed the same or similar effects, in some cases more severe even. In most cases, these side effects did not develop until after BDO had been used near daily for several months. In some cases, people experienced these effects after only a few weeks of occasional use. Other people report using it for many months without any unusual side effects.
First, there were some skin problems... red, puffy, often itchy skin, sometimes rashlike, most common on my face - this would happen alot. It seemed especially common when waking up in the morning after doing BDO the night before. Sometimes this red puffiness would not be limited to just my skin, but would appear on my eyes as well - often accompanied by jaundice. Oily secretions from the skin, as well as outbreaks of acne, were also common.
Another common effect would be cloudy urine - which is a sign of kidney distress, among other things. Again this would most often happen the morning after using BDO but would happen at random other times as well, fairly commonly.
I experienced stomach pains after use, as have several friends. After seeing how strong of a solvent BDO is (I spilled some down the bottle and it did a pretty good job destroying the label), I can only imagine what this stuff must do to your stomach lining.
Another unusual effect I observed was a sort of coldness in my fingertips, combined with a tendency to clench my fingers, as if I had arthritis.
More disturbing was the constant feeling of fatigue and general malaise that developed towards the end of my BDO use. I felt tired all the time, and didn't feel particularly healthy. This would vary in intensity, sometimes giving me nasty headaches, but the feelings of unhealthiness were near constant.
However the most disturbing effects, the ones which made me decide to throw out almost 20 liters of the poison, were the cardiovascular effects. I began to experience strange chest pains, erratic blood pressure (usually on the high side, leading to headaches like I mentioned), weird heartbeats... frankly it scared the fuck out of me when these effects began to develop. I was running average resting blood pressures between 150/85 and 160/95, and I was only 26 years old at the time. I know of several people who sought medical attention for cardiovascular problems which they believe were caused by using BDO.
At first as these symptoms began to develop, I wondered if they were due to the BDO or if they were weird side effects from quitting smoking a few months prior. Experimentally, I decided to switch to GHB. The red puffy skin effects vanished overnight, and within days the cloudy urine and cardiovascular symptoms all began disappearing, and my blood pressure began dropping back to my normal 125/75. Within 2 or 3 weeks, the unhealthy poisoned feeling lifted.
Another difference is tolerance... GHB produces very little tolerance. BDO, on the other hand, produces a very noticable and strong tolerance. This is probably because it is an alcohol which must be metabolized by the liver into GHB. That means you end up with enzyme induction, and therefore tolerance develops. Although GHB itself can be physically addictive and can produce strong withdrawal symptoms, reports of physical addiction seem much more common with BDO, and the withdrawal symptoms can be quite severe.
One other thing to add... I noticed this a few times on BDO but it has never happened on GHB. Sometimes, with high doses, I would be laying there falling asleep or even totally asleep, and all the sudden feel as if I'd stopped breathing, and would suddenly wake up in a panic state and take a bigloud breath, sort of like the way you breathe in after having been underwater holding your breath for a while. Kinda scary... I've heard a few people mention this happening to them with BDO too. After all, BDO is an alcohol with its own depressant effects that have nothing to do with it converting to GHB (there are studies backing this up on MedLine). GHB may not dangerously depress breathing with normal use, but BDO may have that potential. And besides... we all know how mixing depressants is dangerous. BDO is one that comes mixed - its an alcohol that metabolizes into GHB. In other words, BDO is something like taking your GHB in a shot of vodka.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I stopped using GHB a year ago, mainly because I got bored with it and outgrew it, but also because I felt that it promoted a state of mind where I was numb to the world and apathetic about everything, including my own life. However, I think GHB is a relatively benign drug if used wisely and in moderation. It is probably as safe as drinking alcohol, and may even be easier on the body - though like alcohol, it can be both highly habit forming and physically addictive.
I can't say the same about 1,4-butanediol. I am quite certain that it is probably one of the most toxic drugs to come on the drug scene in a long time. I blame the war on drugs for forcing people to turn to it because stupid laws have made GHB illegal. I'd be willing to wager that future research will show 1,4-butanediol to be quite toxic to the body. In addition, I also found that 1,4-butanediol is a much less enjoyable drug than GHB. It produces a dizzy and somewhat nauseating feel which GHB itself does not. It produces a significant hangover, unlike GHB.
NTP Repository Information for 1,4-butanediol What's Related >>
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-IDENTIFIERS
===========
*CATALOG ID NUMBER: 002152
*CAS NUMBER: 110-63-4
*BASE CHEMICAL NAME: BUTANEDIOL,1,4-
*PRIMARY NAME: 1,4-BUTANEDIOL
*CHEMICAL FORMULA: C4H10O2
*STRUCTURAL FORMULA: HO(CH2)4OH
*WLN: Not available
*SYNONYMS:
BUTANEDIOL
BUTANE-1,4-DIOL
1,4-BUTYLENE GLYCOL
1,4-DIHYDROXYBUTANE
DIOL 14B
SUCOL B
1,4-TETRAMETHYLENE GLYCOL
TETRAMETHYLENE GLYCOL
BUTYLENE GLYCOL
TETRAMETHYLENE 1,4-DIOL
-PHYSICAL CHEMICAL DATA
======================
*PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: LITERATURE: Colorless oily liquid
REPOSITORY: Clear colorless liquid @ ambient temperatures
*MOLECULAR WEIGHT: 90.12
*SPECIFIC GRAVITY: 1.020 @ 20/4 C [055,062]
*DENSITY: Not available
*MP (DEG C): 16 C [025,055,062,275]
*BP (DEG C): 230 C [025,062,205,269]
*SOLUBILITIES:
WATER : >=100 mg/mL @ 23 C (RAD)
DMSO : >=100 mg/mL @ 23 C (RAD)
95% ETHANOL : >=100 mg/mL @ 23 C (RAD)
METHANOL : Not available
ACETONE : >=100 mg/mL @ 23 C (RAD)
TOLUENE : Not available
OTHER SOLVENTS:
Benzene: 0.3 parts/100 mL solvent [205]
Ether: 3.1 parts/100 mL solvent [205]
Petroleum ether: 0.9 parts/100 mL solvent [205]
*VOLATILITY:
Vapor pressure: <1 mm Hg @ 38 C [058]
Vapor density : 3.1 [042,107]
*FLAMMABILITY(FLASH POINT):
This chemical has a flash point of 119 C (247 F) [107,430]. It is combus-
tible. Fires involving this material can be controlled with a dry chemical,
carbon dioxide or Halon extinguisher. A water spray may also be used [058].
*UEL: Not available LEL: Not available
*REACTIVITY:
This compound reacts with acid chlorides, acid anhydrides and chloroformates
[269]. It also reacts with oxidizing agents and reducing agents [058,269].
It is incompatible with isocyanates and acids [058,107]. It is also incompat-
ible with peroxides, perchloric acid, sulfuric acid, hypochlorous acid, nitric
acid, caustics, acetaldehyde, nitrogen peroxide and chlorine [107].
*STABILITY:
This chemical is hygroscopic [058]. It is heat and light sensitive [107].
Solutions of this chemical in water, DMSO, 95% ethanol or acetone should
be stable for 24 hours under normal lab conditions (RAD).
*OTHER PHYSICAL DATA:
Boiling point: 120 C @ 10 mm Hg [017,025,047]
Refractive index: 1.4450 @ 20 C
Crystallizes below 65 F
Nearly odorless
Viscous liquid crystal to needles on chilling
-TOXICITY
========
*NIOSH REGISTRY NUMBER: EK0525000
*TOXICITY:
typ. dose mode specie amount units other
LDLo ipr mus 500 mg/kg
LD50 ipr rat 1370 mg/kg
LD50 unr gpg 1200 mg/kg
LD50 unr mus 2062 mg/kg
LD50 unr rat 1525 mg/kg
LD50 unr rbt 2531 mg/kg
LDLo rec man 429 mg/kg
LDLo unr wmn 300 mg/kg
*AQTX/TLM96: Not available
*SAX TOXICITY EVALUATION:
THR: MODERATE via oral and intraperitoneal routes.
*CARCINOGENICITY: Not available
*MUTATION DATA:
test lowest dose | test lowest dose
----------- ----------------- | ----------- -----------------
Not available |
*TERATOGENICITY:
Reproductive Effects Data: Not available
*STANDARDS, REGULATIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS:
OSHA: None
ACGIH: None
NIOSH Criteria Document: None
NFPA Hazard Rating: Health (H): None
Flammability (F): None
Reactivity (R): None
*OTHER TOXICITY DATA:
Status: EPA Genetox Program 1986, Inconclusive: D melanogaster Sex-linked
lethal
EPA TSCA Chemical Inventory, 1986
EPA TSCA Test Submission (TSCATS) Data Base, June 1987
Meets criteria for proposed OSHA Medical Records Rule
-OTHER DATA (Regulatory)
=======================
*PROPER SHIPPING NAME (IATA): Not restricted
*UN/ID NUMBER:
*HAZARD CLASS: SUBSIDIARY RISK: PACKING GROUP:
*LABELS REQUIRED:
*PACKAGING: PASSENGER: PKG. INSTR.: MAXIMUM QUANTITY:
CARGO : PKG. INSTR.: MAXIMUM QUANTITY:
*SPECIAL PROVISIONS:
*USES:
Solvents, humectant, intermediate for plasticizers, pharmaceuticals, cross-
linking agent in polyurethane elastomers, manufacture of tetrahydrofuran,
and terephthalate plastics.
*COMMENTS: Not available
-HANDLING PROCEDURES
===================
*ACUTE/CHRONIC HAZARDS:
When heated to decomposition this compound emits toxic fumes of CO and CO2
[058,269]. It may also emit toxic fumes of tetrahydrofuran and other ali-
phatic fragments [058]. It may be an eye irritant [058,269]. It may also be
irritating to the skin and mucous membranes [058].
*MINIMUM PROTECTIVE CLOTHING: Not available
*RECOMMENDED GLOVE MATERIALS:
GlovES Expert System Recommended Gloves For Use With Neat (Undiluted) Chemical:
This chemical has not been tested for permeation by Radian Corporation;
however, the GlovES expert system was used to extrapolate permeation test
information from compounds in the same chemical class and the following
recommendation(s) are provided. The GlovES system uses permeation data from
literature sources; therefore, extra safety margins should be used with the
recommended exposure times. If this chemical comes into contact with your
glove, or if a tear, puncture or hole develops, remove them at once.
Suggested Glove Type Model Number Thickness Estimated Breakthrough
Neoprene Pioneer N-44 0.56 mm 480 min.
Nitrile Pioneer A-14 0.54 mm 480 min.
Natural rubber Edmont 36-124 0.46 mm 360 min.
PVC Pioneer V-20 0.45 mm 480 min.
*RECOMMENDED RESPIRATOR:
Where the neat test chemical is weighed and diluted, wear a NIOSH-
approved half face respirator equipped with an organic vapor/acid gas
cartridge (specific for organic vapors, HCl, acid gas and SO2) with a
dust/mist filter.
*OTHER: Not available
*STORAGE PRECAUTIONS:
You should store this material under refrigerated temperatures,
and protect it from light and moisture.
*SPILLS AND LEAKAGE:
If you should spill this chemical, use absorbent paper to pick up
all liquid spill material. Seal the absorbent paper, as well as any
of your clothing which may be contaminated, in a vapor-tight plastic
bag for eventual disposal. Wash any surfaces you may have contaminated
with a soap and water solution. Do not reenter the contaminated
area until the Safety Officer (or other responsible person) has verified
that the area has been properly cleaned.
*DISPOSAL AND WASTE TREATMENT: Not available
-EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
====================
*SKIN CONTACT:
IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating
all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly
with soap and water.
If symptoms such as redness or irritation develop, IMMEDIATELY call a
physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital for treatment.
*INHALATION:
IMMEDIATELY leave the contaminated area; take deep breaths of fresh air.
If symptoms (such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or burning in
the mouth, throat, or chest) develop, call a physician and be prepared to
transport the victim to a hospital.
Provide proper respiratory protection to rescuers entering an unknown
atmosphere. Whenever possible, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)
should be used; if not available, use a level of protection greater than or
equal to that advised under Respirator Recommendation.
*EYE CONTACT:
First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush
victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while
simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center.
Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without
specific instructions from a physician.
IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if
no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop.
*INGESTION:
DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. If the victim is conscious and not convulsing,
give 1 or 2 glasses of water to dilute the chemical and IMMEDIATELY call a
hospital or poison control center. Be prepared to transport the victim to a
hospital if advised by a physician.
If the victim is convulsing or unconscious, do not give anything by mouth,
ensure that the victim's airway is open and lay the victim on his/her side with
the head lower than the body. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. IMMEDIATELY transport
the victim to a hospital.
*SYMPTOMS:
Symptoms of exposure to this compound include nausea, headache, gastrointes-
tinal disturbances and vomiting [269]. It may also cause miosis, uncons-
ciousness and coma [430]. Other symptoms include confusion, pharyngitis,
drowsiness, coughing, dyspnea, respiratory distress, cardiovascular distur-
bance, central nervous system depression and paralysis [107]. Other symptoms
include eye, skin and mucous membrane irritation; dermatitis, lack of appetite
and incoordination [058]. It may also cause dizziness, abdominal pain, nar-
cosis and kidney damage [058,107].
-SOURCES
=======
*SOURCES:
[015] Lewis, R.J., Sr. and R.L. Tatken, Eds. Registry of Toxic Effects
of Chemical Substances. Microfiche Ed. National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health. Cincinnati, OH. Quarterly
Updates. EK0525000.
[017] Weast, R.C., M.J. Astle, and W.H. Beyer, Eds. CRC Handbook of
Chemistry and Physics. 67th Ed. CRC Press, Inc. Boca Raton,
FL. 1986. p. C-167; #3833.
[025] Buckingham, J., Ed. Dictionary of Organic Compounds. 5th Ed.
Chapman and Hall. New York. 1982. Vol. 1, p. 904; #B-03469.
[042] Sax, N.I. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 6th Ed.
Van Nostrand Reinhold. New York. 1984. p. 547.
[047] Weast, R.C. and M.J. Astle, Eds. CRC Handbook of Data on
Organic Compounds. CRC Press, Inc. Boca Raton, FL.
1985. Vol. 1, p. 327; #B03538.
[055] Verschueren, K. Handbook of Environmental Data on Organic
Chemicals. 2nd Ed. Van Nostrand Reinhold. New York. 1983.
p. 298.
[058] Information Handling Services. Material Safety Data Sheets
Service. Microfiche Ed. Bimonthly Updates. April/May 1988.
#3444-003, A-01; #5833-127, F-13.
[062] Sax, N.I. and R.J. Lewis Sr., Eds. Hawley's Condensed Chemical
Dictionary. 11th Ed. Van Nostrand Reinhold. New York. 1987.
p. 186.
[082] U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Toxic Substances.
Toxic Substances Control Act Chemical Substance Inventory: 1985
Edition. 5 Vols. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Washington, D.C. January 1986. Listed.
[107] Occupational Health Services, Inc. Hazardline. Occupational
Health Services, Inc. New York. September 17, 1987.
[110] Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Environmental Mutagen Information
Center (EMIC), Bibliographic Data Base. Oak Ridge National
Laboratory. Oak Ridge, TN. Not listed.
[120] Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Environmental Teratogen Information
Center (ETIC), Bibliographic Data Base. Oak Ridge National
Laboratory. Oak Ridge, TN. Listed.
[205] Dean, John A., Ed. Lange's Handbook of Chemistry. 13th Ed.
McGraw-Hill Book Company. New York. 1985. p. 7-181; #b643.
[269] Lenga, Robert E. The Sigma-Aldrich Library of Chemical Safety Data.
Edition 1. Sigma-Aldrich Corporation. Milwaukee, WI. 1985.
p. 301-A.
[275] Aldrich Chemical Company. Aldrich Catalog/Handbook of Fine
Chemical. Aldrich Chemical Co., Inc. Milwaukee, WI.
1988. p. 262; #24,055-9.
[430] Clayton, G.D. and F.E. Clayton, Eds. Patty's Industrial Hygiene
and Toxicology. Vol. 2. Third Revised Edition. John Wiley
and Sons. New York. 1981. Vol. II-C, pp. 3872-3880.
[610] Clansky, Kenneth B., Ed. Suspect Chemicals Sourcebook: A Guide to
Industrial Chemicals Covered Under Major Federal Regulatory and
Advisory Programs. Roytech Publications, Inc. Burlingame, CA.
1990. Not listed.
[620] United States National Toxicology Program. Chemical Status Report.
NTP Chemtrack System. Research Triangle Park, NC. October 3, 1990.
Listed.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-IDENTIFIERS
===========
*CATALOG ID NUMBER: 002152
*CAS NUMBER: 110-63-4
*BASE CHEMICAL NAME: BUTANEDIOL,1,4-
*PRIMARY NAME: 1,4-BUTANEDIOL
*CHEMICAL FORMULA: C4H10O2
*STRUCTURAL FORMULA: HO(CH2)4OH
*WLN: Not available
*SYNONYMS:
BUTANEDIOL
BUTANE-1,4-DIOL
1,4-BUTYLENE GLYCOL
1,4-DIHYDROXYBUTANE
DIOL 14B
SUCOL B
1,4-TETRAMETHYLENE GLYCOL
TETRAMETHYLENE GLYCOL
BUTYLENE GLYCOL
TETRAMETHYLENE 1,4-DIOL
-PHYSICAL CHEMICAL DATA
======================
*PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: LITERATURE: Colorless oily liquid
REPOSITORY: Clear colorless liquid @ ambient temperatures
*MOLECULAR WEIGHT: 90.12
*SPECIFIC GRAVITY: 1.020 @ 20/4 C [055,062]
*DENSITY: Not available
*MP (DEG C): 16 C [025,055,062,275]
*BP (DEG C): 230 C [025,062,205,269]
*SOLUBILITIES:
WATER : >=100 mg/mL @ 23 C (RAD)
DMSO : >=100 mg/mL @ 23 C (RAD)
95% ETHANOL : >=100 mg/mL @ 23 C (RAD)
METHANOL : Not available
ACETONE : >=100 mg/mL @ 23 C (RAD)
TOLUENE : Not available
OTHER SOLVENTS:
Benzene: 0.3 parts/100 mL solvent [205]
Ether: 3.1 parts/100 mL solvent [205]
Petroleum ether: 0.9 parts/100 mL solvent [205]
*VOLATILITY:
Vapor pressure: <1 mm Hg @ 38 C [058]
Vapor density : 3.1 [042,107]
*FLAMMABILITY(FLASH POINT):
This chemical has a flash point of 119 C (247 F) [107,430]. It is combus-
tible. Fires involving this material can be controlled with a dry chemical,
carbon dioxide or Halon extinguisher. A water spray may also be used [058].
*UEL: Not available LEL: Not available
*REACTIVITY:
This compound reacts with acid chlorides, acid anhydrides and chloroformates
[269]. It also reacts with oxidizing agents and reducing agents [058,269].
It is incompatible with isocyanates and acids [058,107]. It is also incompat-
ible with peroxides, perchloric acid, sulfuric acid, hypochlorous acid, nitric
acid, caustics, acetaldehyde, nitrogen peroxide and chlorine [107].
*STABILITY:
This chemical is hygroscopic [058]. It is heat and light sensitive [107].
Solutions of this chemical in water, DMSO, 95% ethanol or acetone should
be stable for 24 hours under normal lab conditions (RAD).
*OTHER PHYSICAL DATA:
Boiling point: 120 C @ 10 mm Hg [017,025,047]
Refractive index: 1.4450 @ 20 C
Crystallizes below 65 F
Nearly odorless
Viscous liquid crystal to needles on chilling
-TOXICITY
========
*NIOSH REGISTRY NUMBER: EK0525000
*TOXICITY:
typ. dose mode specie amount units other
LDLo ipr mus 500 mg/kg
LD50 ipr rat 1370 mg/kg
LD50 unr gpg 1200 mg/kg
LD50 unr mus 2062 mg/kg
LD50 unr rat 1525 mg/kg
LD50 unr rbt 2531 mg/kg
LDLo rec man 429 mg/kg
LDLo unr wmn 300 mg/kg
*AQTX/TLM96: Not available
*SAX TOXICITY EVALUATION:
THR: MODERATE via oral and intraperitoneal routes.
*CARCINOGENICITY: Not available
*MUTATION DATA:
test lowest dose | test lowest dose
----------- ----------------- | ----------- -----------------
Not available |
*TERATOGENICITY:
Reproductive Effects Data: Not available
*STANDARDS, REGULATIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS:
OSHA: None
ACGIH: None
NIOSH Criteria Document: None
NFPA Hazard Rating: Health (H): None
Flammability (F): None
Reactivity (R): None
*OTHER TOXICITY DATA:
Status: EPA Genetox Program 1986, Inconclusive: D melanogaster Sex-linked
lethal
EPA TSCA Chemical Inventory, 1986
EPA TSCA Test Submission (TSCATS) Data Base, June 1987
Meets criteria for proposed OSHA Medical Records Rule
-OTHER DATA (Regulatory)
=======================
*PROPER SHIPPING NAME (IATA): Not restricted
*UN/ID NUMBER:
*HAZARD CLASS: SUBSIDIARY RISK: PACKING GROUP:
*LABELS REQUIRED:
*PACKAGING: PASSENGER: PKG. INSTR.: MAXIMUM QUANTITY:
CARGO : PKG. INSTR.: MAXIMUM QUANTITY:
*SPECIAL PROVISIONS:
*USES:
Solvents, humectant, intermediate for plasticizers, pharmaceuticals, cross-
linking agent in polyurethane elastomers, manufacture of tetrahydrofuran,
and terephthalate plastics.
*COMMENTS: Not available
-HANDLING PROCEDURES
===================
*ACUTE/CHRONIC HAZARDS:
When heated to decomposition this compound emits toxic fumes of CO and CO2
[058,269]. It may also emit toxic fumes of tetrahydrofuran and other ali-
phatic fragments [058]. It may be an eye irritant [058,269]. It may also be
irritating to the skin and mucous membranes [058].
*MINIMUM PROTECTIVE CLOTHING: Not available
*RECOMMENDED GLOVE MATERIALS:
GlovES Expert System Recommended Gloves For Use With Neat (Undiluted) Chemical:
This chemical has not been tested for permeation by Radian Corporation;
however, the GlovES expert system was used to extrapolate permeation test
information from compounds in the same chemical class and the following
recommendation(s) are provided. The GlovES system uses permeation data from
literature sources; therefore, extra safety margins should be used with the
recommended exposure times. If this chemical comes into contact with your
glove, or if a tear, puncture or hole develops, remove them at once.
Suggested Glove Type Model Number Thickness Estimated Breakthrough
Neoprene Pioneer N-44 0.56 mm 480 min.
Nitrile Pioneer A-14 0.54 mm 480 min.
Natural rubber Edmont 36-124 0.46 mm 360 min.
PVC Pioneer V-20 0.45 mm 480 min.
*RECOMMENDED RESPIRATOR:
Where the neat test chemical is weighed and diluted, wear a NIOSH-
approved half face respirator equipped with an organic vapor/acid gas
cartridge (specific for organic vapors, HCl, acid gas and SO2) with a
dust/mist filter.
*OTHER: Not available
*STORAGE PRECAUTIONS:
You should store this material under refrigerated temperatures,
and protect it from light and moisture.
*SPILLS AND LEAKAGE:
If you should spill this chemical, use absorbent paper to pick up
all liquid spill material. Seal the absorbent paper, as well as any
of your clothing which may be contaminated, in a vapor-tight plastic
bag for eventual disposal. Wash any surfaces you may have contaminated
with a soap and water solution. Do not reenter the contaminated
area until the Safety Officer (or other responsible person) has verified
that the area has been properly cleaned.
*DISPOSAL AND WASTE TREATMENT: Not available
-EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
====================
*SKIN CONTACT:
IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating
all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly
with soap and water.
If symptoms such as redness or irritation develop, IMMEDIATELY call a
physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital for treatment.
*INHALATION:
IMMEDIATELY leave the contaminated area; take deep breaths of fresh air.
If symptoms (such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or burning in
the mouth, throat, or chest) develop, call a physician and be prepared to
transport the victim to a hospital.
Provide proper respiratory protection to rescuers entering an unknown
atmosphere. Whenever possible, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)
should be used; if not available, use a level of protection greater than or
equal to that advised under Respirator Recommendation.
*EYE CONTACT:
First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush
victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while
simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center.
Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without
specific instructions from a physician.
IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if
no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop.
*INGESTION:
DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. If the victim is conscious and not convulsing,
give 1 or 2 glasses of water to dilute the chemical and IMMEDIATELY call a
hospital or poison control center. Be prepared to transport the victim to a
hospital if advised by a physician.
If the victim is convulsing or unconscious, do not give anything by mouth,
ensure that the victim's airway is open and lay the victim on his/her side with
the head lower than the body. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. IMMEDIATELY transport
the victim to a hospital.
*SYMPTOMS:
Symptoms of exposure to this compound include nausea, headache, gastrointes-
tinal disturbances and vomiting [269]. It may also cause miosis, uncons-
ciousness and coma [430]. Other symptoms include confusion, pharyngitis,
drowsiness, coughing, dyspnea, respiratory distress, cardiovascular distur-
bance, central nervous system depression and paralysis [107]. Other symptoms
include eye, skin and mucous membrane irritation; dermatitis, lack of appetite
and incoordination [058]. It may also cause dizziness, abdominal pain, nar-
cosis and kidney damage [058,107].
-SOURCES
=======
*SOURCES:
[015] Lewis, R.J., Sr. and R.L. Tatken, Eds. Registry of Toxic Effects
of Chemical Substances. Microfiche Ed. National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health. Cincinnati, OH. Quarterly
Updates. EK0525000.
[017] Weast, R.C., M.J. Astle, and W.H. Beyer, Eds. CRC Handbook of
Chemistry and Physics. 67th Ed. CRC Press, Inc. Boca Raton,
FL. 1986. p. C-167; #3833.
[025] Buckingham, J., Ed. Dictionary of Organic Compounds. 5th Ed.
Chapman and Hall. New York. 1982. Vol. 1, p. 904; #B-03469.
[042] Sax, N.I. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 6th Ed.
Van Nostrand Reinhold. New York. 1984. p. 547.
[047] Weast, R.C. and M.J. Astle, Eds. CRC Handbook of Data on
Organic Compounds. CRC Press, Inc. Boca Raton, FL.
1985. Vol. 1, p. 327; #B03538.
[055] Verschueren, K. Handbook of Environmental Data on Organic
Chemicals. 2nd Ed. Van Nostrand Reinhold. New York. 1983.
p. 298.
[058] Information Handling Services. Material Safety Data Sheets
Service. Microfiche Ed. Bimonthly Updates. April/May 1988.
#3444-003, A-01; #5833-127, F-13.
[062] Sax, N.I. and R.J. Lewis Sr., Eds. Hawley's Condensed Chemical
Dictionary. 11th Ed. Van Nostrand Reinhold. New York. 1987.
p. 186.
[082] U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Toxic Substances.
Toxic Substances Control Act Chemical Substance Inventory: 1985
Edition. 5 Vols. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Washington, D.C. January 1986. Listed.
[107] Occupational Health Services, Inc. Hazardline. Occupational
Health Services, Inc. New York. September 17, 1987.
[110] Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Environmental Mutagen Information
Center (EMIC), Bibliographic Data Base. Oak Ridge National
Laboratory. Oak Ridge, TN. Not listed.
[120] Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Environmental Teratogen Information
Center (ETIC), Bibliographic Data Base. Oak Ridge National
Laboratory. Oak Ridge, TN. Listed.
[205] Dean, John A., Ed. Lange's Handbook of Chemistry. 13th Ed.
McGraw-Hill Book Company. New York. 1985. p. 7-181; #b643.
[269] Lenga, Robert E. The Sigma-Aldrich Library of Chemical Safety Data.
Edition 1. Sigma-Aldrich Corporation. Milwaukee, WI. 1985.
p. 301-A.
[275] Aldrich Chemical Company. Aldrich Catalog/Handbook of Fine
Chemical. Aldrich Chemical Co., Inc. Milwaukee, WI.
1988. p. 262; #24,055-9.
[430] Clayton, G.D. and F.E. Clayton, Eds. Patty's Industrial Hygiene
and Toxicology. Vol. 2. Third Revised Edition. John Wiley
and Sons. New York. 1981. Vol. II-C, pp. 3872-3880.
[610] Clansky, Kenneth B., Ed. Suspect Chemicals Sourcebook: A Guide to
Industrial Chemicals Covered Under Major Federal Regulatory and
Advisory Programs. Roytech Publications, Inc. Burlingame, CA.
1990. Not listed.
[620] United States National Toxicology Program. Chemical Status Report.
NTP Chemtrack System. Research Triangle Park, NC. October 3, 1990.
Listed.
OK- Good post..BUT I marketed a 1,4 product(when it was OTC) that was sold in health food stores and the FDA has HUNDREDS of pages of toxity tests-as geuss what?? No proof it was toxic!! WE even had it made in an FDA approved lab..go figure
J
ps-THE ONLY reson its off the market is because Phizer and Merck are both coming out with a GHB tab that will be a MILLION $$ seller for sleep aids!!!
J
ps-THE ONLY reson its off the market is because Phizer and Merck are both coming out with a GHB tab that will be a MILLION $$ seller for sleep aids!!!
damn B182 I couldnt ask for anything more, that is definitely very invaluble information.
I'm debating on even using it at all anymore, despite the fact that a lot of people have conflicting viewpoints on 1,4, and alot of you have very convincing info.
B182 brought to attention very good information which is one reason I started the post and ask the question on the safety of the drug. 1,4 is definitely not ghb, despite the fact that your body converts 1,4 to ghb. But what about the unaltered drug inself that is left to be convert that is 'floating' around in your body? It is a very strong solvent that is basically absorbed into your bloodstream before it even makes its first hepatic pass, and even then as b182 pointed out, alot of the 1,4 most likely has not been converted to ghb due to the length of time it takes for it to start taking affect. Also the length of time the buzz is felt is another indication of how the 1,4 is metabolized.
I took it yesterday for the first time in over 6 months probably and honestly can say I didnt shake the spins and vision disturbances for probably over 5 hrs.
Also I agree that 1,4 produces a 'dirtier' high than say ghb. I've never tried Gbl or ghb so I really have no idea what those 2 feel like, but I'm sure they are much different. with the 1,4 I dont experience any noticable degree of euphoria, its a much more intense dizzyness and spinning feeling like drinking too much alcohol.
I would love to try ghb as a comparison cause it seems much more enjoyable.
I'm debating on even using it at all anymore, despite the fact that a lot of people have conflicting viewpoints on 1,4, and alot of you have very convincing info.
B182 brought to attention very good information which is one reason I started the post and ask the question on the safety of the drug. 1,4 is definitely not ghb, despite the fact that your body converts 1,4 to ghb. But what about the unaltered drug inself that is left to be convert that is 'floating' around in your body? It is a very strong solvent that is basically absorbed into your bloodstream before it even makes its first hepatic pass, and even then as b182 pointed out, alot of the 1,4 most likely has not been converted to ghb due to the length of time it takes for it to start taking affect. Also the length of time the buzz is felt is another indication of how the 1,4 is metabolized.
I took it yesterday for the first time in over 6 months probably and honestly can say I didnt shake the spins and vision disturbances for probably over 5 hrs.
Also I agree that 1,4 produces a 'dirtier' high than say ghb. I've never tried Gbl or ghb so I really have no idea what those 2 feel like, but I'm sure they are much different. with the 1,4 I dont experience any noticable degree of euphoria, its a much more intense dizzyness and spinning feeling like drinking too much alcohol.
I would love to try ghb as a comparison cause it seems much more enjoyable.
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