Novel Alpha-Hydroxy Carboxylic Acid And Derivatives And Other GRAS- Based Prodrugs Of Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) And Uses Thereof

Abstract

The invention describes pharmaceutical compounds and compositions comprised of prodrug ligands attached to GHB (CNS drugs) in a manner that substantially decreases or deters the potential for GHB abuse, illicit and illegal use, and overdose. These compounds and compositions may provide substantially higher bioavailability, substantially higher half-life, substantially higher chemical and biological stability, and easier shipping and distribution requirements. These GHB prodrug compounds may alter both the physical and chemical properties and thus may not be suitable for illicit use as a date-rape drug (i.e., they may not dissolve instantly in water based drinks, may have different color once in solution, and/or may have a taste and odor once in solution etc.). When delivered at the proper dosage, the pharmaceutical composition provides therapeutic activity similar to that of the parent active agent GHB.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.