GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyric acid) is a naturally occurring neurotransmitter, which became a very popular psychoactive drug. Medically, the drug is usually used as an anesthetic or to treat sleep disorders, like narcolepsy and insomnia. Some people also use it to treat alcoholism or depression.
Recreationally, GHB is used for its psychoactive high. It is normally found in rave scenes under street names, such as liquid X, G, or liquid G, because of its similarity to ecstasy (MDMA).
Regardless of its reputation as a safer alternative to drugs, such as diet acids and ecstasy, GHB is potentially risky to use. Some of the dangers associated with the use of the drug include:
- Addiction
Despite the claims of most users, GHB is very addictive. When you start taking the drug recreationally, you could develop a tolerance and the need to make use of it so as to feel the effects. This means you may have to take more of the drug to get similar effects. Overdose symptoms from the drug include seizures, reduced heart rate, coma, headaches, and hallucinations, just to name a few. Considering how strong the depressant is, an extra dose may put you into a life-threatening condition and way over.
When you reach this point, dependency is not far behind. If you are exposed to the drug, you can reach out to dedicated treatment providers, like The Hader Clinic, for help. All addiction treatment programs for the drug need to be incorporated with a group or individual therapy, mixed with a non-addictive medication to reduce depression and anxiety.
- Memory Loss
Chronic GHB abuse adversely affects memory and the ability to enjoy life and cope with stress or anxiety. For some individuals, the aftermath of the drug addiction may result in some weeks of such effects.
However, for others, the effect can last longer or even become permanent. GHB overdoses may also come with lasting adverse effects based on oxygen deprivation and other events during the overdose.
- Date Rape
Tragically, some individuals add GHB to alcoholic drinks at raves, clubs, and bars to easily incapacitate others and abuse them sexually because a high dose of the drug may make a person lose consciousness. Usually, victims don’t have a memory of what happened after taking the drug.
Identifying the symptoms of this date rape drug and keeping an eye out for your intoxicated friends may go a long way. Date rape may happen to anyone, so knowing the symptoms and signs of GHB is important.
If you suspect you are a victim of sexual assault or date rape, it is vital to get medication attention immediately. Don’t change your clothing or bathe before leaving so that the hospital may collect evidence. In addition, tell police officers everything you remember.
- Death
While it is difficult to estimate how many individuals have overdosed, GHB was linked to more than 70 deaths in Australia between 2000 and 2019.
Aspiration and vomiting are common when it comes to GHB overdose. You can avoid most of the deaths involving inhaling vomit by placing the victim in a recovery position. Clearing the airway, calling an ambulance, and maintaining adequate respiration can also be helpful.
Get Help!
Considering its link to date rape, addiction, death, and memory loss, if you are exposed to GHB, don’t wait until it is too late to get help.
Your healthcare provider may recommend you various resources of safe detox and treatment programs packed with support groups, education, and counseling services.
