Gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB), also referred to as Gamma-OH in Europe, is a drug that is both colorless and odorless. It is often misused recreationally and as a "date rape" drug. As a depressant, GHB can enhance sociability and act as a short-lived euphoriant. Individuals who have experienced negative effects from GHB sometimes report having unknowingly ingested it, while others have acknowledged using it deliberately.GHB is available in both liquid and powder forms and is sold on the streets under various names, including "Grievous Bodily Harm," "Georgia Home Boy," "Liquid Ecstasy," "Liquid X," "GHB," "GBH," "Soap," "Scoop," "Easy Lay," "Salty Water," "G-Riffick," "Cherry Menth," and "Organic Quaalude." In February 2000, the U.S. enacted federal legislation that increased the penalties for distributing and possessing drugs like GHB used in date rapes. Just a few drops in a beverage can cause someone to lose consciousness within 15-20 minutes. By that time, GHB had been linked to over 5,700 overdose cases and at least 57 deaths.Mixing GHB with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants can be fatal. A mere teaspoon (5 cc) of GHB combined with alcohol can incapacitate a person and significantly depress their respiratory function within 20 minutes of consumption. GHB can also lead to physical addiction.In the United States, GHB is often produced illegally with varying purity levels. The concentration of "liquid" GHB depends on its preparation. If not prepared correctly, GHB can combine with sodium hydroxide, leading to severe toxicity due to GHB's effects and the caustic nature of sodium hydroxide.GHB affects the brain by increasing certain neurotransmitter levels and is mostly excreted within hours after ingestion. Symptoms of acute GHB toxicity include coma, seizures, and vomiting. Other effects range from hypotonia at doses of 10 mg/kg body weight to disrupted sleep patterns and respiratory depression at higher doses. Doses exceeding 50 mg/kg body weight can cause severe respiratory depression and coma.There is no specific antidote for GHB overdose, and treatment is limited to supportive care. Many patients require emergency medical attention, including ventilatory support and intensive care.The U.S. Department of Justice’s Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has declared that GHB, known by various street names such as liquid x and Georgia home boy, is a central nervous system depressant misused for its euphoric and hallucinogenic effects. Initially marketed as a "natural" supplement and sold in health food stores, it soon became evident that GHB could cause overdoses and serious health issues. It can lead to drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, unconsciousness, seizures, severe respiratory depression, and coma. GHB is available in liquid form or as a white powder, typically ingested orally and often mixed with alcohol. Its misuse is prevalent among high school and college students, rave partygoers, and bodybuilders who seek its intoxicating or alleged anabolic effects. There have been numerous reports of GHB being used to incapacitate women for sexual assault.
