GHB

What is GHB?

Gammahydroxybutyrate is an anesthetic drug with sedative properties. It is a central nervous system depressant. GHB was initially developed in the United States for use as a pre-medication sedative prior to surgery. GHB is a colorless, odorless liquid with a salty taste and usually comes in small vials or bottles. It has also been seen in powder and capsule form. It is most commonly taken orally, although there have been reports of injection. Recent media articles have reported that GHB appears in a bright blue liquid form ("blue nitro"), however it is important to note that this is not always the case. The manufacturer can add a simple food dye (of any color) to GHB to alter the color.

Who uses GHB?

Aside from its medical applications, GHB has been used by bodybuilders to stimulate growth hormone release. The other major user group are patrons of dance parties and nightclub scenes. GHB has also been referred to as a "date-rape" drug. This is because it can be added to a drink without leaving any visible trace.

Effects

Short term effects

Like many other illicit drugs the effects of GHB on a person may depend on:

• how it is taken
• whether it is used with other drugs (such as alcohol)
• the amount taken
• the way it is taken
• the person's general health

The average dose is 5ml - 15ml. It can take from 5 to 20 minutes after ingestion for the effects to become noticeable. Effects may last for as little as 2 hours or as long as 20 hours.

As GHB is most commonly found in a liquid form, it is almost impossible to accurately gauge the strength or purity of a dose. This is because more dealers are experimenting with their own "backyard" recipes.

Commonly reported effects of low to moderate doses include:

• euphoria
• relaxation
• calmness
• drowsiness
• dizziness
• increased sociability
• decreased inhibitions (which may produce feelings of sexual arousal or increased libido)
• enhanced sense of touch

High Doses

There appears to be a narrow margin between a desired dose and a potential overdose. The effects of a high dose include:

• rapid or intense drowsiness
• muscle tension or spasms
• impairment of movement and speech
• disorientation
• vomiting
• convulsions
• coma
• respiratory collapse

Long term effects

Little is known of the long term effects of GHB use. As GHB is similar to the effects of sedative drugs, it is possible that one may become physically or psychologically dependent. There is also the potential for tolerance to develop over a period of time to achieve the same (or any) effects as first experienced.

GHB use with other drugs

Combining GHB with other depressant drugs like prescription medications or alcohol can slow down the body's central nervous system and be dangerous. The adverse effects of one drug may be greatly increased by the other.

GHB use in pregnancy

Little, if anything is known about GHB use in pregnancy. As is the case with many prescription drugs and illicit drugs (as well as alcohol and tobacco), it is not recommended that GHB be used during pregnancy.