What Is GHB & Is It Dangerous

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GHB (gamma hydroxybutyrate) is an illegally-produced drug that is commonly referred to as a “club drug”. This club drug is being abused by a growing number of teens and young adults attending raves, clubs, bars, and all night dance parties.

It is an odorless, colorless liquid that is most often placed in alcoholic beverages for consumption. Because it can be slipped into drinks of unsuspecting individuals, it is also being used as a “date rape” drug.

Common Street Names of GHB

GHB That Has a Number of Common Street Names Including:

  • Liquid X
  • Liquid Ecstasy
  • Georgia Home Boy
  • Ooop
  • Gamma-oh
  • Grievous Bodily Harm
  • Mils
  • G
  • Liquid G
  • Fantasy

The Effects of GHB

The desired effects of GHB include feelings of euphoria, an increased sex drive, and a sense of tranquility. However, many individuals who use the drug discover that there are also significant negative effects including sweating, loss of consciousness, amnesia, nausea, hallucinations, and even coma.

Individuals purchase the drug on the street or over the Internet in a liquid form or as a white powder. The production of GHB typically involves the use of drain cleaner or lye mixed with GBL, a chemical related to GHB. It is often mixed with unknown, toxic contaminants.

The Risks of GHB

Along with the dangerous immediate side effects, GHB also has an addictive potential if it is repeatedly used. Withdrawal is particularly challenging with symptoms that include insomnia, anxiety, tremors, and sweating. For many users, withdrawal symptoms can be extremely severe and even incapacitating.

High doses of GHB have led to many emergency room visits by users experiencing profound sedation, seizures, and respiratory distress. There have also been reports of deaths related to GHB use.

Along with addiction, long-term use of this dangerous drug can lead to amnesia and long-term memory loss. Many who undergo treatment will start using again because they simply do not remember the consequences of their GHB use. This is why a professional treatment program that includes continued patient education along with relapse prevention tools is necessary to minimize the chance of relapse.

Get Help For Drug Addiction

If you are struggling with GHB or any other substance addiction or you know someone who is, the time to ask for help is now. Our individualized detox and treatment programs can help you or your loved one get back on track.

Call Serenity at Summit Now To See How We Can Help You!

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