Drugs A-Z

GHB

AKA

Gabba, GHB (GammaHydroxyButyrate), Liquid ecstasy or known increasingly as 'G'

Description

An odourless liquid, slightly salty to taste and normally sold in small bottles. It may also be found in powder or capsule form. GHB is usually taken by mouth and can also be injected, which is more risky. GBL is also commonly available and has very similar effects to GHB.

Effects

At low doses GHB can make users feel well, euphoric, sensual and/or happy. At higher doses however the sedative effects become more apparent and it can make you pass out very quickly. The effects start between 10 and 30mins after taking it and are relatively short lived, perhaps 2-4 hours. GHB is seen by the body as a nutrient and is sometimes used before bed by bodybuilders to improve sleep and growth hormone secretion in order to help build muscle. Unwanted effects may include nausea, vomiting, muscle stiffness, fitting (muscle spasms) and anxiety.

GHB crosses the blood-brain barrier unlike other drugs and therefore it has the ability to work on the brain in ways that other drugs don't as the body does not see it as a toxin. Half a teaspoon or half a capful is a typical dose however it depends on the strength of the solution and also body weight. If taking GBL 1ml is plenty for first time users.

Harm Reduction

• Large doses can lead to unconsciousness or a coma. This is not normally fatal but if you are sick whilst unconscious you could choke on your vomit. Take a small amount first and wait to see the effects before taking more. If a pal loses consciousness don't leave them or try to move them BUT DO PUT them into the recovery position on their side to stop them choking and call an ambulance.
• Only use the drug in the presence of someone who understands its effects and who will not panic in such a situation.
• Coma & choking are more likely if the drug is used with alcohol and other depressants such as painkillers or tranquillisers.

• Remember many people report no effect the first time they use GHB/GBL. Do not top up if this is the case - wait a few hours before taking another dose.

GHB/GBL Dependency

• Although, some internet sites may say that GHB/GBL is not addictive GHB/GBL used on a regular basis can quickly lead to dependency. GHB/GBL dependency can be characterised as "round the clock" use where users may have to dose every one to two hours and dependency can develop within a few weeks of use
• Currently not much is known about GHB/GBL dependency syndrome. Both GHB and GBL are highly addictive substances and regular use can result in dependency that, when the user is coming off the drug, can result in severe withdrawal symptoms (similar to those of alcohol dependency withdrawal)
• Withdrawal symptoms can start very quickly, one to two hours after the last dose. These can include feeling anxious, sleeplessness, feeling shaky, confused and nauseous or vomiting.
• Although it may be possible to gradually reduce the use of GHB/GBL this should only be done UNDER MEDICAL SUPERVISION. IT IS DANGEROUS TO SUDDENLY STOP TAKING GHB/GBL AND YOU SHOULD NOT MIX GHB/GBL WITH OTHER SUBSTANCES INCLUDING ALCOHOL. THIS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL OVERDOSE

Law

GHB & GBL are now both class C drugs. The penalties for possession are up to 2 years imprisonment and an unlimited fine and for possession with intent to supply up to 14 years and an unlimited fine.

Detection

GHB stays in the body between 12 and 24 hours.