Gamma-Hydroxybutyric Acid

Gamma-Hydroxybutyric Acid (GHB) is commonly sold in liquid form and is widely known as a “date rape” drug.

Gamma-Hydroxybutyric acid, commonly known as GHB, is a central nervous system depressant that is both a prescription medication and an illegal substance. When used legally, it is prescribed under the name sodium oxybate to treat conditions such as narcolepsy. However, GHB is also produced illegally in clandestine laboratories, both domestically and abroad, and sold on the streets for recreational use. Its illicit forms are frequently found in liquid or powder form and are often associated with nightlife environments such as clubs and parties.

Street Use and Distribution

On the street, GHB is typically sold in liquid form, often by the capful. It is also sold as a white powder that users dissolve in liquids like water, juice, or alcohol. Street names for GHB include “G”, “Liquid Ecstasy”, “Scoop”, “Goop”, “Georgia Home Boy”, and “Grievous Bodily Harm”. Despite its reputation as a “party drug,” GHB has earned notoriety due to its dangerous effects when mixed with other substances and its association with sexual assault.

Physical Properties and Consumption

In its liquid form, GHB is clear, colorless, and slightly salty in taste, often indistinguishable from water. It is sometimes packaged in small vials or water bottles, making it easy to conceal and administer without detection. While many users consume GHB for its euphoric, sedative, and muscle-relaxing effects, the drug can also lead to increased suggestibility, amnesia, and loss of self-control, making it particularly dangerous in social settings. This has resulted in its use as a “date rape” drug, as victims often lose memory of events while under the influence.

Misuse and Popularity

GHB became popular among teens and young adults during the 1990s, particularly within the rave and club scene. It is often taken in combination with alcohol or other drugs, which can amplify its effects and significantly increase the risk of overdose. GHB misuse has persisted due to its ability to induce a state of euphoria, relaxation, and increased libido, as well as a misguided belief that it can help with muscle growth or weight loss. The drug can also trigger a range of psychological effects, from visual hallucinations to aggressive and erratic behavior.

Dangers and Health Risks

One of the most dangerous aspects of GHB use is its interaction with other depressants, particularly alcohol. When combined, the depressant effects are greatly magnified, increasing the risk of overdose, unconsciousness, respiratory failure, or even death. Additionally, the unpredictability of GHB’s effects, combined with its narrow margin between a recreational dose and a toxic one, makes it particularly hazardous for users. As a result, GHB is tightly regulated and classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in many countries due to its high potential for abuse and lack of accepted safety when used recreationally.

Summary

While GHB has legitimate medical uses, its illegal production and widespread misuse, particularly in social settings, have made it a dangerous and controversial substance. Its association with sexual assault and its unpredictable, potentially lethal effects make it a serious public health concern, particularly when combined with alcohol or other drugs. Awareness of the risks associated with GHB is crucial in preventing its misuse and addressing the harm it can cause in both individual and public settings.

Source: US Department of Justice/Drug Enforcement Administration.