GHB - Gamma-HydroxyButryrate
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There has been a lot of media attention lately about the so-called
club drugs ecstasy, ketamine and GHB. This months's Drug
of the Month article focuses on GHB, a drug that has also
gained a reputation as a date rape drug. That's a lot of publicity
for a drug that most people had not even heard of five years ago.
GHB was originally developed for use as a surgical anesthesia.
That use was soon discontinued because of the dangerous side effects
listed below. In more recent years, GHB has been used by
body builders and some athletes to build muscle, although the efficacy
of GHB for this purpose has never really been documented.
Since 1990, the FDA has been warning consumers about the instability
of GHB and its side effects and has banned the drug for all
but research use.
GHB is Gamma-hydroxybutryrate. It is a synthetic drug that
has been sold as a powder, capsule, and liquid. The degree of intoxication
and resulting effects are, of course, dose dependent. The following
side effects have been reported by users of GHB: drowsiness,
dizziness, nausea, hallucinations, difficulty breathing, blacking
out, seizures, coma and death. Because GHB can be easily
poured into a drink, it has been used to incapacitate a potential
victim. Because it is often made by non-professionals in illegal
labs and sold in various doses, it is exremely dangerous to ingest.
The liquid form of GHB is sometimes called Liquid Ecstasy
or Liquid E. It does have a somewhat salty taste that can be masked
easily by pouring it into a sweetened drink. Sometimes GHB
is touted as a health potion or energy potion, especially when available
at RAVES. The drug begins to take effect in about 10 to 20
minutes. Depending upon the dose, the effects may last from one
to several hours.
It is important to note than any substance, legal or illegal, that
impairs perception and makes a person more vulnerable, is a potential
date rape drug. If you drink alcohol, it is important to limit your
drinks and to make sure your drink is always within your sight.
Illegal drugs are not tested for safety, packaged in standard amounts
or checked for harmful additives. You take a risk with your health
and safety every time you use them.
If you have a questions about GHB or any other drug contact
ADAPT at 255-4850. If you have been sexually assaulted, contact
the police, the Central Minnesota Sexual Assault Center (24 hr.
line) 320-251-4357 or Sexual Assault Services at the SCSU
Women's Center 320-255-3995.
Websites and Links
University of
Kentucky
GHB and Facts
Personal Stories of GHB
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