GHB

GHB (gamma hydroxybutyrate) or more commonly known as “The Date Rape Drug” or “Roofies” is a depressant, which means it slows down the messages travelling between the brain and the body. GBL (gamma butyrolactone) and 1,4-BD (1,4-butanediol) are chemicals that are closely related to GHB. Once GBL or 1,4-BD enter the body, they convert to GHB almost immediately.

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Forms:

GHB usually comes as a colourless, odourless, bitter or salty liquid, which is usually sold in small bottles or vials. It can also come as a bright blue liquid known as ‘blue nitro’, and less commonly as a crystal powder.

It can also come as a pill which is more commonly used to spike drinks.

Common Names

  • G
  • Juice
  • Liquid Ecstasy/Liquid E
  • Liquid X
  • Blue Nitro

How is it Used?

GHB is usually swallowed, but sometimes it’s injected or inserted anally.

GHB Overdose & Mixing with Other Drugs

Dangerous Signs:

If the dose is too high, you might overdose. If you have any of these symptoms, call an ambulance straight away by dialing 999 or 112:

  • Vomiting
  • Irregular or shallow breathing
  • Confusion, irritation and agitation
  • Hallucinations
  • Blackouts and memory loss
  • Unconsciousness that can last for 3 to 4 hours

Mixing GHB with other drugs:

GHB + ALCOHOL OR BENZODIAZEPINES

Chance of overdose is greatly increased. GHB will interact with prescription drugs heightening the risk of cardiac arrest and respiratory failure.

GHB + AMPHETAMINES OR ECSTASY

Enormous strain on the body and risk of seizures.

Side Effects of
GHB

There is no safe level of drug use. Use of any drug always carries risk.

The effects of taking GHB with other drugs including over-the-counter or prescribed medications can be unpredictable and dangerous.

GHB affects everyone differently, based on:

  • The amount taken
  • A person’s size, weight and health
  • Whether the person is used to taking it
  • Whether other drugs are taken around the same time

Common Effects:

The following effects may begin within 15 to 20 minutes of taking GHB and may last for around 3 to 4 hours:
  • Feelings of euphoria
  • Increased sex drive
  • Lowered inhibitions
  • Drowsiness
  • Tremors
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
The chemical composition of GHB is highly variable. It’s very easy to take too much GHB: the difference between the amount needed to get high and the amount that causes an overdose can be hard to judge.

Long-term effects:

Little is known about the long-term effects of GHB use. However, it is known that regular use can lead to tolerance and dependence, which means larger amounts of GHB are needed to get the same effect.