GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyric acid)

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GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyric acid)

GHB

(gamma-hydroxybutyric acid)

Synonyms	The most common synonyms are: 4-hydroxybutanoate, Caps, Date rape drug, Easy lay, Fantasy, G, Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid, Georgia home boy, GH, Goop, Grievous bodily harm, Liquid ecstasy, Liquid X, Organic quaalude, Petit jus, Salty water, Scoop, Soap, Vita-G
Classification	Central nervous system depressant: Refers to a substance that slows mental functions by reducing the brain's overall activity and alertness. Has a calming effect on the user.
Visual description	Sold as a clear, odourless liquid or as a white powder, as is, or in capsules. A light soapy and salty taste is possible.
Mechanism of action	GHB is a weak GABA receptor agonist. It is also involved in the modulation of dopaminergic neurons and stimulates the release of growth hormone.
Routes of administration	Ingested (product is dissolved in alcohol).

Effects sought out by the user

Euphoria (heightened sense of well-being)
Reduced inhibition
Relaxation

Common toxic effects

Amnesia
Changes in physical and mental functions
Confusion
Decreased muscle strength
Diarrhea
Dizziness
Headache
Heightened sensitivity to touch
Hypnotic state
Hypothermia (lowered body temperature)
Increased sex drive

Lack of coordination
Memory loss
Muscular spasms
Nausea
Sleepiness
Slurred speech
Tremors
Urinary incontinence
Vertigo
Vomiting

Overdose effects

Bradycardia (decreased heart rate)
Coma
Convulsions
Death

Hallucinations
Hypotension (drop in blood pressure)
Loss of consciousness
Respiratory depression

Effects associated with chronic use

Chronic vision problems
Depression
Impaired memory and judgement

Mood swings
Slurred speech

Tolerance (need to increase the dose to feel the same effect)

Yes

Addiction

Yes, physical.

Withdrawal

Yes, if discontinuation is abrupt and the user has taken repeated high doses (anxiety, insomnia, tremors, muscular cramps, trouble sleeping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea). Although rare, the most severe cases of abrupt GHB discontinuation result in severe agitation, paranoia, visual and auditory hallucinations, tachycardia (increased heart rate) and hypertension.

Onset and duration of action
Route of administration	Onset of action	Peak	Duration of action
Oral	5 to 30 minutes	20 to 45 minutes	45 minutes to 8 hours (usually 1 to 3 hours)

Screening

Blood: GHB is no longer detectable in the blood after 8 hours.
Urine: GHB is no longer detectable in urine after 12 hours.

Intoxication management

No antidote available. Certain medications can, however, neutralize some of its effects.
Treatment is mainly symptomatic.

Other useful information

GHB is used as a party drug. However, it is also used to commit crimes, hence its nickname "date rape drug". Its nickname is the result of its properties which include amnesia, state similar to drunkenness and very short duration of action. GHB does not have any aphrodisiac properties as such, but can cause a loss of sexual inhibition.

Many different street drugs are sold under the same name. Furthermore, nothing guarantees the quantity, purity or even the content of a street drug in spite of the fact that it may, in some cases, look like medication.

If you need help or want to learn more:

Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction

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The patient information leaflets are provided by Vigilance Santé Inc. This content is for information purposes only and does not in any manner whatsoever replace the opinion or advice of your health care professional. Always consult a health care professional before making a decision about your medication or treatment.