WHAT IS GHB?
- GHB (Gamma hydroxybutyrate) usually comes as an odorless
liquid, slightly salty to the taste, and sold in small bottles. It
has also been found in powder and capsule form.
- It is classified as a sedative-hypnotic, and was originally
developed as a sleep-aid.
- A similar drug, "GBL," is often sold under different names and
turns into GHB in the body, having the same effect.
WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS?
- At lower doses GHB has a euphoric effect similar to alcohol,
and can make the user feel relaxed, happy and sociable.
- Higher doses can make the user feel dizzy and sleepy, and can
sometimes cause vomiting, muscle spasms, and loss of
consciousness.
- Overdoses will always cause loss of consciousness (temporary
coma), and will slow down breathing. Sometimes, and particularly if
mixed with alcohol, GHB can slow breathing down to a dangerously
low rate, which has caused a number of deaths.
WHAT IS THE DOSAGE?
- A teaspoon or capful by mouth is usually considered a normal
dose, but strength can vary from batch to batch. Careful users
start with half a teaspoon and wait at least an hour before
deciding whether to take more.
- The effects are usually felt between ten minutes and one hour
after ingestion. The primary effects last about 2-3 hours, but
residual effects can last up to a whole day.
- It's hard to find the proper dose with GHB. A teaspoon might be
perfect one time, but an overdose the next time. It depends on body
weight, and how much food is in the stomach, and other random
factors.
- The effects may not peak for up to two hours, and many
overdoses have occurred from people not waiting long enough before
taking more.
BE CAREFUL.
- Mixing GHB with alcohol or other depressants is extremely
dangerous and has caused many deaths due to respiratory
failure.
- Passing out on GHB by itself is also dangerous and potentially
life-threatening.
- Don't drive on GHB. One dose can impair motor coordination by
as much as six drinks of alcohol. Also, the effects come on fast
and, unlike alcohol, cannot be controlled or paced.
- Regular, daily use of GHB can cause physical dependency with
harsh withdrawal symptoms.
- GHB is illegal and possession can result in long prison
terms.
- Some people dye their GHB blue with food coloring in order to distinguish it from regular water.
WHAT IF SOMEONE OVERDOSES?
- If you are at a rave or nightclub and someone falls unconscious
or has a seizure, call an ambulance immediately.
- While waiting for an ambulance, lay the person on their side
(recovery position) so if they vomit they won't choke. Make sure
their air passage is clear and their chin is not pressed up against
their chest.
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