The State Chemist confirmed detection of GBL (γ-Butyrolactone) in the Larnaca water cooler, results received by police early afternoon on January 7, 2026, pivotal for the investigation into the January 3 tragedy that killed a 78-year-old and hospitalized four others after consuming the water.
Police sources informed CNA that probes continue intensively to determine how GBL ended up in the cooler, with ongoing statements taken today from the victims’ close family and social circle present at the home during the incident.
No other individuals beyond the four hospitalized have been identified as having drunk from the cooler; the case remains highly sensitive, requiring full evaluation based on scientific and lab findings before assessing potential criminality.
Victims’ medical update
Four persons remain hospitalized at Larnaca General Hospital with improving conditions; one previously intubated in Intensive Care has been extubated but stays in ICU.
Sources note GBL overdose can be difficult to treat due to its multiple effects on the human body, underscoring the substance’s dangers.
GBL substance profile
GBL, an organic chemical compound widely used as an industrial solvent, appears in cleaning products, paint removers, plastics production, and electronics components; it is not intended for human consumption on the legal market.
Upon ingestion, the body rapidly metabolizes GBL into GHB (γ-hydroxybutyric acid), a potent central nervous system depressant akin to a narcotic, sparking international debate on abuse substances despite GBL not being classified as a drug itself.
Effects and narrow safety margin
At low doses, GBL – via GHB conversion – induces transient relaxation and euphoria, often leading to recreational use; however, it has an extremely narrow margin between effect and toxicity.
Higher quantities cause confusion, coordination loss, respiratory depression, fainting, or coma, making safe non-medical dosing practically impossible.
Addiction and withdrawal risks
GBL carries high addiction potential; regular use leads to withdrawal syndrome including anxiety, insomnia, tremors, tachycardia, and severe cases epileptic seizures requiring immediate medical supervision – abrupt cessation proves dangerous without professional management.
Deadly alcohol synergy
Combining GBL with alcohol or other depressants dramatically amplifies brain suppression, heightening risks of respiratory collapse and unconsciousness; this mix links internationally to poisonings, ICU admissions, and fatalities.
Legal status in Cyprus
Due to GHB conversion, GBL is treated as a controlled or precursor substance under Cyprus and many countries’ narcotics laws despite legitimate industrial uses; authorities warn distribution or possession for consumption incurs legal penalties as a high-risk substance outside industrial contexts.
Public health implications
GBL transcends mere solvent status: bodily transformation yields a powerful brain depressant with unpredictable action, high toxicity from minor dose increases, and severe addiction potential.
Public health and addiction experts stress urgent need for awareness and prevention in Cyprus, where detox facilities face increasingly complex new-generation substance cases.
Also read: Larnaca water cooler poisoning, tests due this week
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