GHB
GHB (Gamma-Hydroxybutyric acid) is a depressant that slows down the activity of the brain and other parts of the nervous system. This inhibitory action has a relaxing or calming effect that causes people to feel good. The use of GHB to make people relaxed and "high" is frequently associated with all-night dance parties or "raves". In such situations, GHB is often taken in combination with other drugs, such as Ecstasy.
People generally use GHB because it makes them feel
- relaxed, sociable, and happy
- less inhibited
Other effects on behavior include
- drowsiness and falling asleep
- increased sexual feelings
- memory lapses
Common street names: Liquid ecstasy, liquid X, G, grievous bodily harm, Georgia home boy.
How is GHB used? GHB is usually swallowed as a salty tasting liquid or less commonly as a powder or pill. Because of its salty taste, GHB is often mixed with a flavored beverage. Men sometimes secretly put GHB into a woman's drink to make her more susceptible to sexual advances or attack. For this reason, GHB is referred to as a "date rape" drug.
Risk of addiction: Possible but not common
Effects on the body: Inhibition of the nervous system by GHB can cause
decreased heart rate
decreased breathing rate
decreased blood pressure
decreased body temperature
Overdose: High doses of GHB can cause nausea, vomiting, headache, impaired breathing, extreme drowsiness, loss of consciousness, convulsions, coma, and death.
How is GHB produced? GHB is an abbreviation for gamma hydroxybutyrate, a natural chemical found in all body tissues but in highest concentration in the brain. Drug companies produce it for a few medical purposes. It is also easy to make in a home lab and is therefore readily available from drug dealers for recreational use.
Can GHB be used legally? GHB is sometimes prescribed by a doctor for the treatment of sleep problems. It is also used by some doctors as an anesthetic to help keep people asleep during surgery. In the 1980s, GHB could be purchased in health food stores and was widely used to help people relax and sleep. It was also claimed that it could help in body building. After the dangers of GHB were discovered, its sale in the United States without a doctor's prescription was banned in 1990.
How quickly does GHB act? GHB takes about 15 minutes to an hour to exert its effects, which can last 3-6 hours.
Drug tests for GHB: Standard drug tests do not test for the presence of GHB in the urine. It is possible to detect GHB with a special test, but the test must be done quickly because GHB is only detectable for about 8 hours after the drug is taken.
How many students use GHB? About 1% of high school seniors say they have used GHB within the past year.