Parents, Know the Facts! – GHB (Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate)

GHB (GAMMA HYDROXYBUTYRATE) IS A POWERFUL DEPRESSANT OF THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM, MEANING IT DELAYS THE TRANSMISSION OF INFORMATION BETWEEN THE BRAIN AND THE REST OF THE BODY.

GHB is popular among teenagers and young adults, especially those who frequently go to nightclubs and "rave" events. Many young adults have required immediate medical attention due to GHB. Since it is odourless and colourless, the liquid may be unknowingly slipped into a person's drink. GHB is often called "the date rape drug" because of this very reason. Additionally, since both GHB and alcohol are depressants, combining the two is very risky and even fatal.

Different forms of GHB: odourless, colourless, bitter, or salty liquid sold in tiny bottles or vials. It may also be found as a vivid blue liquid known as "blue nitro" and, less often, as a crystal powder.

ALSO KNOWN AS:

The date rape drug, liquid ecstasy, soap, easy lay, vita-G, Georgia homeboy, scoop, grievous bodily harm, liquid X, and goop.

EFFECTS OF GHB

There is no safe level of substance misuse. The following effects may be experienced:

Relaxation, drowsiness, sociability, euphoria, lack of inhibition, heightened sensitivity to touch, dizziness, vomiting, tremors, tunnel vision, loss of coordination (ataxia), confusion, irritation and agitation, hallucinations, blackouts and memory lapses, seizures, coma, respiratory arrest (stopping breathing) and death.

It is unknown what the long-term effects of GHB are, however the substance is recognised to pose a risk of dependency.

WITHDRAWAL

Symptoms vary in intensity depending on the individual’s tolerance, overall health and metabolism, as well as the frequency and duration of substance misuse. These symptoms can include:

Anxiety, insomnia, increased heart rate, high blood pressure, physical tremors, hallucinations, extreme confusion, delirium, psychotic thoughts, changes in mood and aggression

OVERDOSE

When GHB is used with other substances, such as alcohol, the danger of overdose rises. Combining GHB with other depressants is very hazardous. Signs of overdose include that the person:

appears to be sleeping yet cannot be roused; is unable to communicate, sweating profusely, is vomiting and has irregular or shallow breathing; either cannot stand or has involuntary muscular contractions, or both.