GHB/GBL Addiction

What is GHB?

GHB, scientifically known as gamma-hydroxybutyric acid, is a depressant drug, commonly coming in the form of a colourless, odorless, salt-like whitish powder which may also be dissolved in liquid.

GHB has an intoxicating effect when used and can be naturally found in small quantities in meat, wine and some citrus fruits.

People selling GHB often claim that it has weight loss effects and promotes body building, but there is no clinical data to back these claims. It has often been used at parties but it is an addictive drug and people can develop a dependence on this.

What is GBL?

Scientifically labeled as gamma-butyrolactone, GBL is a type of organic solvent used for various industrial purposes such as cleaning metal and stripping paint.

Usually found in liquid form, GBL is a very different narcotic substance than others because of its shape-shifting abilities it has, as once it is in the body, the liver can change it into the GHB drug.

The Effects of GHB/GBL On The Body

People who use GHB or GBL for a long period of time will more than likely develop a dependence for this narcotic substance.

Both drugs are central nervous system depressants, which causes the brain to function slower than usual.

Other effects of GHB/GBL include:

Feeling overconfident, energetic and careless or in contrast, feeling sad, withdrawn and low in confidence.
Minimises fear of things that were once intimidating
Enhanced sex drive
Loss of focus and poor judgment

When GHB or GBL is not available, the addict may suffer unpleasant withdrawal symptoms which includes sweating, anxiety, hypertension, and an increased heart rate.

Like other withdrawal symptoms these will last for a few days and may need medical attention in a detoxification (detox) centre.

GHB - GBL Addiction

GHB/GBL withdrawal can have a second, delayed, phase of withdrawal which is characterized by mental clouding, anxiety, and paranoia. This will last another 2-4 days and should be assessed by a doctor.

GHB/GBL withdrawal can be life threatening and admission to an inpatient detoxification (detox) centre is highly recommended.

The Dangers of Using GHB/GBL

One of the biggest dangers that those that abuse GHB or GBL face is the threat of suffering an overdose due to the potency of these drugs.

A moderate dose of GHB/GBL can put you into a deep sleep where the user could suffocate on their own vomit.

A higher dose of GHB/GBL can put the abuser or addict into a coma which they cannot be woken from. It also slows down the respiratory system drastically, which could kill you or cause permanent brain damage.

Excessive use of these narcotic substances also have the ability to cause fits and stop the abusers heartbeat.

If you suspect that your loved one has suffered a GHB/GBl overdose, seek professional medical help immediately.

Another danger of these drugs are the possibility of causing injury to yourself and to the people around you at home, work or even in the streets.

This is because those who are under the influence of GHB or GBL will often tend to take more risks than usual. A good example of this would be driving while you are under the influence of this drug.

GHB and GBL is also used prominently in sexual assault, as often in nightclubs or bars, people leave their drinks unattended to and abusers often slip it in the liquid without anybody knowing.