The Truth about GHB
GHB, (Gamma-hydroxybutyrate), is a Scheduled I controlled
substance.
Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid or GHB, is a compound that was initially
used by body builders to stimulate muscle growth. In recent years
it has become popular as a recreational drug among club kids and
partygoers.
This "designer" drug is often used in combination with other drugs,
such as Ecstasy. GHB is synthesized from a chemical used to clean
electrical circuit boards, and is available in clear liquid, white
powder, tablet and capsule form.
GHB is odorless and nearly tasteless. Users report that it induces
a state of relaxation. The effects can be felt within 5 to 20
minutes after ingestion and the high can last up to four hours.
The Food and Drug Administration banned GHB in 1990 after 57 cases
of GHB-induced illnesses (ranging from nausea and vomiting to
respiratory problems, seizures and comas) were reported to poison
control centers and emergency rooms. The drug was only permitted
under the supervision of a physician. Since then, the drug has been
implicated in several deaths and was subsequently added to the
Schedule I list of drugs in the Controlled Substance Act. Anyone
who possesses, manufactures or distributes GHB could face a prison
term of up to 20 years.
GHB users risk many negative physical effects including vomiting,
liver failure, potentially fatal respiratory problems, and tremors
and seizures, which can result in comas.
GHB has reportedly been used in cases of date rape. Because GHB is
odorless and tasteless, it can be slipped into someone's drink
without detection.
