Signs of GHB Addiction

First produced in 1960 and made a Schedule I (the most regulated category) substance in 2000, Gamma-Hydroxybutyric (GHB) is sold in either liquid (with no color or smell) or powder (sometimes made into capsules or tablets) form; it is produced in laboratories from such chemicals as gamma-butyrolactone (GBL), potassium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, and butanediol (a solvent for removing paint and a chemical used for manufacturing adhesives and plastics, respectively). The drug is popular with body builders—because it releases growth hormone and for other anabolic effects—and with young rave and club attendees.  Among the latter group, GHB has sometimes been used as a date rape drug because it can make the user drowsy (i.e., it is a central nervous system depressant) and cause memory problems (a benefit for the rapist if the matter is taken to court). If intentionally used for recreational purposes, GHB can result in feelings of relaxation that can last for about two to five hours.  Below you will find additional symptoms of an addiction to or recent use of GHB.

• Withdrawal when use is stopped – Part of an addiction diagnosis is, in many cases, the presence of any number of potential withdrawal symptoms when the person – willingly or unwillingly – stops using.  The symptoms associated with GHB withdrawal include sweating, delusions, hypotension, insomnia, delirium, muscle cramps, hostility, tremors, and anxiety among others. GHB withdrawal may begin 1 to 2 hours following the most recent administration in GHB addicts.
• Problems with concentration – GHB’s effects at low doses mimic those of alcohol inebriation including difficult focusing on a specific task or conversation.
• Amnesia or blackouts – After using moderate to high doses of GHB, a person may have poor recollection of events that occurred after the drug took effect.
• Hallucinations – While under the influence of GHB, a user may have visual or other sensory hallucinations or otherwise seem detached from reality.
• Frequently going to parties, clubs, or raves – Although by itself, this does not signal GHB use, it can increase the likelihood of a person using GHB or other club drugs like Ecstasy, LSD, crystal meth, and ketamine.
• Use of other substances – Many people who are addicted to GHB also abuse other substances, especially alcohol (also popular in the club scene).
• Unusually rapid and extreme muscle growth – GHB is also used by many bodybuilders to speed up the growth of muscle as part of a “stack.”
• Problems with peripheral vision – If the person complains of difficulty seeing people and objects that are not directly in front of them, they may have recently used or be chronic users of GHB.
• Few inhibitions – A person who has consumed GHB will likely demonstrate a willingness or desire to engage in activities that they might not otherwise because of the associated risks.  This can include unprotected sex with unknown or multiple partners; crime; or other dangerous behaviors.

If you have concerns about another person’s use of GHB or other illegal drugs, read more about interventions and treatment options.