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GHB Abuse Fact Sheet

GHB, a drug that is commonly associated with date rape cases, is a depressant that produces effects such as forgetfulness, seizures, reduced heartbeat and even coma. The coma that users slip into lasts for around one to two hours, and people will generally recover within the next eight to nine hours. Because of this effect, it is commonly used for date rapes. The strong sedative effect is one of the reasons why teens use the drug: it gives them effects similar to those of alcohol but without any telltale odor on their breath.

If you or someone you love is addicted to club drugs like GHB, The Canyon has a drug addiction treatment program that can help.

GHB Abuse: The Basics

GHB, usually produced in a liquid form, can be produced both professionally and in a home lab environment. There are many instruction sets available online that detail how to create the drug, and certain substances can change into GHB after they are ingested. These types of chemicals include things like 3-butyrolactone, and are available in chemicals and supplements that bodybuilders commonly take.

GHB Abuse: Signs and Symptoms

GHB has several common signs associated with its use that indicate addiction to the drug. These symptoms include things like decrease in respiration and heart rate, as well as other symptoms, such as vomiting, seizures and aggressive behaviors. Central nervous system depression is also a side effect, but recovery from CNS depression may be quick, due to the effects of the drug.

GHB Abuse: Harmful Effects

Once GHB is taken, the effects from it will start within a quarter hour to an hour afterwards, and can last around 6 hours. The drug's presence in the body can be detected by analyzing the urine up to 12 hours after it was taken, and if a person takes the drug repeatedly, they can develop a tolerance to its effects, as well as an addiction or dependence on the drug. There have been reports of withdrawal symptoms associated with GHB abuse, and there have been cases where respiratory problems are severe enough to require a ventilator until its effects wear off.

GHB Abuse: Street Names

GHB is known by many names. Some call it liquid ecstasy, Gib, gamma-oh, soap, fantasy and gamma hydrate. However, the most famous name/euphemism for GHB is "the date rape drug," because one of its primary uses is in the facilitation of date rapes.

GHB Abuse: Date Rape Drug

Although GHB is banned in the United States, it is still sold in other countries and can be bought online and shipped into the country. It is usually sold in small bottles or vials, and has a salty taste to it. When used in date rape situations, it is usually poured into the intended victim's drink without their knowledge, which disguises the odd taste. The sedative properties of the drug have caused it to be used in numerous date rape causes, and it is still used to this day in those types of situations.

Drug Rehab at The Canyon

If you or someone you know has developed an addiction to GHB, you can get help at The Canyon. We offer a variety of programs, tools and therapies that you can use to facilitate your recovery from alcohol and drug addiction and go on to lead a healthy life without drug dependency. At The Canyon, we care about your continued success and will provide you with aftercare services to make sure that you have a solid foundation out in the world. Call us at The Canyon today at for more information.

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