Since 1990, there have been over 16,000 GHB-related overdoses in the US. This addictive drug is prone to abuse because it creates euphoric effects when taken in low doses. But eventually, the user develops tolerance.
Once tolerance sets in, the person becomes more likely to take larger doses just to feel the same high. They need to take more and more of the drug just to get the same effects. This puts them at risk of GHB’s more lethal effects.
This is why it is important to talk about the various effects of GHB abuse, and how addiction can affect a person. Here we will take a closer look at GHB.
GHB Overview
GHB is an illegally manufactured drug that has been used for recreational purposes and as a date rape drug. GHB, or Gamma Hydroxybutyrate, is known for having different effects depending on the dosage taken. This infamous drug can produce effects ranging from euphoria to blackouts and amnesia.
Initially, the drug was used as an anesthetic for surgeries. The chemical compound became popular for this reason back in the 1960s. But in the 1980s, it became a party drug and a “fat burner”.
It is worth noting that the body naturally produces small amounts of GHB in the brain. Even certain meats, beer, and wine also contain GHB. In fact, the average liter of wine holds between 4 mg and 21 mg of GHB.
The difference is that illicit GHB confiscated from clubs and street sales hold between 500 mg and 3,000 mg of GHB, which can be dangerous. Street names for GHB include Gamma Oh, Great Hormones at Bedtime, Grievous Bodily Harm, Georgia Home Boy, and Growth Hormone Booster.
It is also known as Liquid Ecstasy, Liquid X, Salty Water, Sleep, and Vita G.
GHB Abuse
In 2002, the FDA approved Xyrem, a medication with GHB used for the treatment of narcolepsy. But it is strictly regulated as a Schedule III Substance and is not available in normal retail pharmacies.
Illicit GHB, on the other hand, is created by street drug manufacturers and sold as a hallucinogen. It comes in the form of a colorless, odorless liquid, but it can also be found in a white powder form with a soapy and salty taste. Taken orally, GHB’s effects can be felt in as little as 10 to 20 minutes.
Most people take GHB recreationally because they heard it’s a popular drug in the club and electronic music scenes. Some report using the drug for its alcohol-like effects. GHB makes them feel relaxed, calm, and uninhibited. It also produces effects like loss of body control, slurred speech, and hangover.
Gym-goers have reportedly used the drug to burn fat and build muscles. Sexual predators have also used GHB as a date rape drug because it is nearly undetectable when mixed into an unsuspecting victim’s drink. The amount used by criminals is usually enough to make the victim lose consciousness, make them unable to defend themselves, and forget the details of what happened the next day.
Since 1990, there have been only 72 reported deaths linked directly to GHB, but experts believe the number is likely much higher.
Effects of GHB Abuse
Though low doses of GHB can cause a euphoric high, it can also cause hallucinations, loss of consciousness, amnesia, and a coma. The fact that most of the GHB consumed in the US is manufactured illegally also increases the dangers. For instance, it is impossible to know the concentration of GHB in each dose without testing it in a lab. Illegal GHB can therefore contain extremely high doses, and the user may suffer from an overdose.
To make matters worse, the difference between a low dose of GHB and a potentially lethal dose of GHB can be relatively small.
Symptoms of GHB overdose include nausea, vomiting, headaches, hallucinations, seizures, amnesia, loss of consciousness, coma, and death. The person may also experience reduced breathing and heart rate. If a person who has taken GHB exhibits any of these symptoms, seek medical assistance immediately.
Short-term side effects of GHB may include clumsiness, confusion, exhaustion, euphoria, hallucinations, headache, seizures, sluggishness, lower body temperature, sweating, and vomiting.
Because the body breaks down GHB quickly, it is difficult to detect in urine after 24 hours. Some of GHB’s effects at low doses can be compared to the effects of stimulants—but interestingly, GHB itself is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. This is why most of its overdose effects involve respiratory depression.
GHB addiction develops over time. A person is addicted to the substance if they keep taking it even when they are already experiencing its negative effects. They will prioritize it over everything else, neglecting their responsibilities and their loved ones along the way. GHB will be their primary motivation, and their physical and mental health will deteriorate as they continue abusing the drug.
GHB and Alcohol
Many drugs become lethal when combined with alcohol; GHB is one of them. In fact, GHB is already dangerous enough on its own that it quickly becomes fatal if mixed with other depressants. This includes alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids, and barbiturates.
When taken together, the depressants slow down the central nervous system and its functions (such as breathing and heart rate) to the point that they may stop completely.
Be on the lookout for different behavioral indicators if you suspect that a person may be under the influence of GHB and other substances. Alcohol and GHB can make someone feel sick, leading to nausea, and vomiting. They may also act uncharacteristically sluggish or confused.
If they are hallucinating, they may not be able to respond properly, or even walk. If they pass out or if their breathing becomes erratic, seek medical help immediately.
GHB Withdrawal and Treatment
It is normal for a person who has been taking GHB for a long time to experience withdrawal. Withdrawal happens because the body has adjusted to the constant presence of GHB. If they quit abruptly, their withdrawal symptoms may be severe, and it will only cause them to relapse. So instead, it is better to find proper medical treatment from a trustworthy rehab facility.
GHB withdrawal symptoms involve feelings of anxiety, insomnia, sweating, shaking, increased heart rate, and psychotic thoughts. Sometimes these symptoms are severe and require medical supervision.
There are no proven addiction treatment medications for GHB addiction. But detox and behavioral therapy can go a long way in helping the person overcome their cravings and manage their withdrawal symptoms. They will be weaned off the drug gradually, while learning how to live a drug-free lifestyle.
If someone in the family is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, it is important to seek help. A combination of medical detox and behavioral therapy can go a long way in the fight against substance abuse. But because every individual is affected by addiction differently, a comprehensive program tailored to their specific needs is necessary. Look for a nearby addiction treatment facility today and find out how drug treatment programs work.
