What is GHB? Addiction, Abuse & Treatment

Gamma-Hydroxybutyric Acid (GHB) is an illegal drug that affects the chemical functions of the brain. People use it for its calming effects or as a party drug since it can enhance confidence and socialization skills. There are also reports that GHB can help lose weight and gain muscle, and it has also been known as a date rape drug.

GHB also poses higher risks when mixed with other substances, such as alcohol or opioids. Overdose can result in seizures, coma, or even death. Learning more about the effects of GHB and the treatment options for those struggling with addiction can help individuals in their journey to combat addiction.

What Is GHB?

GHB’s formula is C4H8O3, which means 4 carbon (C) atoms, 8 hydrogen (H) atoms, and 3 oxygen (O) atoms. GHB depresses the nervous system and increases the likelihood of dependence. 

This drug was legally made to treat muscle weakness and daytime sleepiness. It’s sold under the brand name Xyrem, which was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2002 for medical purposes. Xyrem is a Schedule III drug, which means it has a low to moderate potential for dependence.

However, illicit GHBs that are made in secret laboratories are under Schedule I drug classification. This means it’s illegal to manufacture and possess this drug, and it has a high potential for abuse.

GHB goes by various street names, such as:

• G
• Goop
• Scoop 
• Easy Lay
• Georgia Home Boy
• Grievous
• Bodily Harm
• Liquid Ecstasy
• Liquid X

What Are The Effects Of GHB?

Using GHB can impact both the body and the mind. Upon taking GHB, the effects can be felt for 15 to 30 minutes and may last up to six hours. The short-term effects are as follows:

• Slow heart rate
• Slow breathing
• Seizures
• Nausea and vomiting
• Low body temperature
• Euphoria
• Drowsiness
• Decreased anxiety
• Confusion
• Memory problems
• Increase relaxation and socialization

High doses of GHB and long-term use can lead to the following adverse effects:

• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Tremors
• Increased heart rate
• High blood pressure
• Unconsciousness
• Organ failure (e.g. kidney, liver, lungs)
• Heart disease
• Depression
• Coma
• Death

Is GHB Addictive?

Illicit GHB is addicting due to its effects on the central nervous system of the brain. A person who takes GHB for an extended period of time may grow dependent on it and require increasing doses to maintain the intended results.

Because it helps the user feel calm, happy, and more social, they may wish to experience its effects more frequently. Stopping or reducing the drug’s dosage may cause uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. This contributes to the person’s dependency on the drug.

Signs and Symptoms of GHB Addiction and Abuse.

As with any other substance abuse, GHB addiction can start with experimentation or recreational use. Recognizing the signs of GHB addiction early on can significantly contribute to the treatment and recovery of an individual.

Here are the common signs of GHB abuse:

• Intense craving or preoccupation to take the drug.
• Increasing doses or frequency of using GHB.
• Needing higher doses of the drug to achieve its usual effects.
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when decreasing doses or stopping use.
• Withdrawing from friends or family to hide drug use.
• Prioritizing drug use over school, work, or daily activities.
• Exhibiting mood swings such as aggression and irritability.
• Experiencing financial problems due to GHB use.
• Neglect of relationships and hobbies.
• Impaired judgment due to the influence of the drug.

GHB Overdose – Causes, Symptoms, and Emergency Response

GHB has a salty taste; that’s why it is often mixed with other substances and increases the risk of overdose. One to five grams of GHB, especially if it’s mixed with other substances, can already be fatal. 

Mixing the drug with alcohol can lead to unconsciousness since it can enhance its depressant effects. Using GHB alongside other harmful drugs, such as amphetamines or ecstasy, can result in seizures, coma, or even death.

The symptoms of GHB overdose are as follows:

• Nausea and Vomiting
• Irregular, Fast Breathing
• Confusion, Anger, and Agitation
• Hallucinations
• Blackouts 
• Impaired Memory
• Loss of Consciousness
• Coma
• Seizures
• Death

GHB overdose can be fatal because, based on research, there is no antidote for GHB toxicity. Therefore, if you observe GHB overdose symptoms, calling 911 should not be delayed. Contact professional help immediately.

In case of a GHB overdose, you can take these emergency response steps:

• Stay with the person while waiting for the emergency responders.

• Make sure you are in a well-ventilated area.

• Give the responders as much information as you can regarding the time of intake, dosage, and overdose signs.

The patient may need immediate and severe medical interventions, such as admission to the intensive care unit or hooking up to a mechanical ventilator.

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of GHB Withdrawal?

GHB is eliminated from the body quickly through urine and sweat. A sudden stop of GHB use may have severe withdrawal effects. The symptoms usually start 12 hours after the last use and can last up to 15 days. 

Withdrawal symptoms may vary in intensity, but here are the most common signs:

Physical Signs:

• Tremors
• Excessive Sweating
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Insomnia
• Increased Heart Rate
• Muscle Cramps and Pain
• Severe Headaches

Psychological Signs:

• Anxiety
• Hallucinations
• Confusion
• Depression
• Irritability
• Restlessness
• Fatigue
• Intense Cravings

What Are The Options Available For GHB Addiction Treatment And Rehab?

GHB addiction treatment involves several steps and various methods. If you or a loved one is seeking treatment for GHB addiction, it’s imperative to contact a healthcare provider. Addiction treatment is a complicated process and you will need medical intervention and professional help to succeed in this journey.

Detoxification

The first step to substance abuse treatment is usually detoxification. This is a method to get rid of the drug in the system with less withdrawal symptoms.

Inpatient Treatment

Detoxification is usually followed with inpatient treatment. The patient is confined in a facility to address health issues related to the treatment and receive proper medication and intervention.

Outpatient Treatment

The patient may also opt to stay in their home, given that the area is safe and secured while undergoing rehabilitation. They may continue to see a healthcare provider and attend therapy or counseling as part of the treatment process.

Therapy

Therapy is always a part of addiction treatment to address underlying issues of drug addiction. It’s also a way to help the patient develop good habits that will counter the addiction issues. 

Counseling

A professional counselor can help organize the thoughts and feelings of the patient. Counseling will help them communicate their struggles and feelings in their journey, which can help lead to successful recovery. 

Supportive Community

Recovering from substance abuse is not an easy path to take, so the individual needs a supportive community. They can join groups like Narcotics Anonymous or join a sober living home. A supportive and encouraging community can significantly contribute to addiction recovery and long-term sobriety. 

Medication – Role of Medication in GHB Addiction Treatment

There are several medications used in GHB addiction treatment, but the efficacy may vary from person to person. These are the usual medications that are administered to treat GHB abuse:

Benzodiazepines

Uses: To manage anxiety, seizures, and sleep disorders during GHB withdrawal

Precautions: Careful monitoring is a must to lessen the risk of dependence. Benzodiazepine may not be effective in all cases.

Anticonvulsant

Uses: To manage or prevent seizures.

Precautions: Close medical supervision and dose adjustment for safety.

Antihypertensive

Uses: To manage and lower high blood pressure.

Precautions: Monitoring of blood pressure regularly. Dosage should be adjusted depending on bodily response.

Antidepressants

Uses: GHB is a depressant, and the patient may experience depression, especially if they have pre-existing mental conditions.

Precautions: Close monitoring and ongoing therapy is required to check drug efficacy.