What is GHB?
Gamma hydroxybutyrate, also known as GHB, is a central nervous system depressant, similar to alcohol. It is odorless, and nearly tasteless. Many drug rehab facilities treat the use of this drug. GHB typically comes in the form of a liquid, giving the appearance of water. It can be hidden in clear plastic bottles, water bottles or Gatorade containers.
This drug typically puts its user into a state of relaxation and gives feelings of euphoria. Effects differ depending on the user. These effects take place in less than 20 minutes and can last up to 4 hours. Drug rehab is advised for frequent GHB users as its effects can be deadly. Popular street names include G, sleep, fantasy, liquid ecstasy and Georgia home boy.
For many years, this drug was sold over-the-counter. Body builders used it because they thought it would reduce fat and increase muscle mass. GHB became illegal in 1999 due to numerous deaths. This drug contains ingredients similar to industrial cleaners and floor strippers. Its use has been involved in numerous poisonings, date rapes and deaths.
How is GHB used?
This drug is typically swallowed. It often comes in liquid form or as a white powder but can also be found as a tablet or capsule. In its liquid form, this drug is colorless and odorless. Some often mistake it for water. Frequently, GHB is mixed with alcohol.
Who uses GHB?
Gamma hydroxybutyrate is frequently used by partygoers at raves or dance clubs. In the past, body builders took GHB because its effects were thought to stimulate muscle growth. Today, this drug is used as a date rape drug because of its effects on memory and a person’s muscles, making it impossible for a person to resist harm. Trauma therapy is available at several trauma treatment centers for those who have experienced date rape.
Symptoms of GHB
Positive Symptoms
- Affectionate
- Energetic
- Feelings of happiness, giddiness
- Relaxation
- Talkative
- Euphoria
Negative Symptoms
- Dizziness
- Tremors
- Nausea, vomiting
- Unconsciousness
- Hallucinations
- Drowsiness
- Fluctuating blood pressure
- Drowsiness
- Aggressiveness
- Confusion
- Heart failure
- Anxiety
- Seizures
- Coma
- Respiratory depression
- Death
GHB is both a physically and psychologically addicting drug. This addiction occurs when the drug is taken regularly every few hours for sometimes weeks at a time. In many cases, withdrawal effects occur as a result of GHB use. In serious cases, death is the result of these withdrawal symptoms. Many drug treatment centers are available to treat those struggling with GHB use. These drub rehab facilities seek to prevent the serious effects of addiction.
Withdrawal Effects
- Insomnia
- Profuse sweating
- Increase in blood pressure
- Hallucinations
- Sensitivity to certain stimuli
- Anxiousness
- Alterations in mental abilities
- Restlessness
- Lack of an appetite
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