Gamma-Hydroxybutyric acid or GHB is an FDA approved drug used as a CNS depressant focal in the treatment of a sleep disorder called narcolepsy. It has a sedative characteristic and helps in relaxation of the body.
Alternative and street names
Common names for GHB include "G," Gamma-OH, Georgia Home Boy, Liquid E, Liquid Ecstasy, Liquid, GBH or Grievous Bodily Harm, Organic Quaalude and Scoopv.
How is GHB taken?
The drug is commonly taken orally in powder or liquid form.
Effects of consumption
It is a sedative and a CNS depressant. It causes slower breathing and remarkable decrease in the heart rate which is fatal.
The following are the effects of GHB overdose:
- Intense drowsiness
- Unconsciousness
- Coma
- Muscle spasms
- Disorientation
- Vomiting
- High blood pressure
- Mood swings
- Increased sweating
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Tremors
- Slowed or stopped up breathing that may lead to death
GHB is fatal even if not mixed with other drugs. Consequently an extra precaution when it comes to dosage is crucial.
Impact on the mind/body and health risks
GHB is used as one of the date rape drugs and has been linked to poisoning incidents, overdose and even death. Use of GHB may trigger seizures and coma. In general, this drug is not safe to use without close medical supervision. Other effects may include severe burns in areas of intake like the mouth, throat and stomach if used for a long period of time. The user is very prone to date rape because it causes unconsciousness, remarkable gullibility and complete inability to recall the event the day after it happened.
Signs of GHB abuse
GHB has a sedative character that produces memory loss and unconsciousness to users. This has led to series of sexual assault cases where victims find it hard to recall the suspects and the actual events of the crime. Drug addicts use GHB because of the intoxication that it produces. Sign of drug abuse is physical dependence on the drug or constant craving, tolerance to the dose of the drug and withdrawal symptoms when use is stopped.
What Treatment Options Exist?
GHB detox is required to get rid of the toxins in the body accumulate over time of chronic use. Detox medication include drugs to treat anxiety, depression and other psychological signs of withdrawal. Medical care is required to treat or lessen withdrawal symptoms. Residential services are preferred by patients with GHB addiction since case reports show good response to residential drug treatment.
Withdrawal symptoms
GHB withdrawal symptoms include depression, tremor and anxiety that may last up to 14 days with probable ongoing physical and psychological l issues.