DESCRIPTION GHB (gamma hydroxybutyrate) is a naturally occurring component of human cells and in wine. It is used most commonly in the form of a chemical salt (Na-GHB or K-GHB) which is taken recreationally as a depressant with effects quite similar to those of alcohol. These salts are powders but are most often mixed with water for recreational use. While GHB is most notorious for a few cases where it has been given to unsuspecting individuals, it is more commonly used as a recreational intoxicant like alcohol, as a sleep-aid, or as a supplement by body-builders. One of the major concerns with GHB is that the recreational dosage range is narrow and even small overdoses can cause temporary unrousable unconsciousness (a type of coma) and large overdoses (poisonings) can be life-threatening. There are two other chemicals which are used as GHB equivalents: 1,4-butanediol and gamma butyrlactone. [ Main GHB Vault ]

Dose
A standard recreational dose of pure GHB powder is between 1 - 3 g, though some people use as much as 4-5 grams in a single dose: especially frequent users who have developed a tolerance. Unfortunately, GHB is most frequently found in liquid form of widely variable concentration. 1 gram of GHB powder can be dissolved into as little as 1 ml of water (this makes 5 g per tsp) or a much greater volume and there is virtually no way to tell the concentration once it's in liquid form. The only way to know the concentration of liquid GHB is to know and trust information provided by the source. Users should be extremely careful about GHB dosages as even small overdoses can result in temporarily unrousable sleep.

Price
When purchased in single doses at a club, GHB is generally sold for a couple of dollars per dose. When purchased in larger quantities (or in kits before it became illegal) it is available for $10-$50 per 100 grams.

Law
GHB is illegal to possess or sell in the United States. It became schedule I (federally) in March, 2000 though it was scheduled in many states between 1997 and 1999. Gamma butyrlactone (GBL) is not federally scheduled but is now a list 1 chemical requiring that paperwork be filed for large sales. GBL is scheduled in some states.

Chemistry
GHB is most commonly produced by combining gamma butyrlactone and a strong base such as sodium hydroxide (lye). These two substances react chemically and form the unique chemical GHB.

History
GHB was developed in the early 60s as a human anesthetic, but was discontinued due to unwanted side effects. It's use as a sleep aid and body building supplement in the 80s and as a recreational psychoactive in the 90s led to it being scheduled in the U.S. in March of 2000.

Slang
Common Slang : GHB, G, Liquid X, Liquid E, GBH, Gamma-oh, Blue Verve
Other names used in the media include : Grievous Bodily Harm, Georgia home boy, Goop, EZLay

Onset
As with alcohol and many other substances, the onset of GHB will be affected by how much and how recently one has eaten. Generally this will be between 10-20 minutes.

Duration
The primary effects of GHB last approximately 1 ½ hours. For many people there is an additional period of time (1-2 hrs) of more subtle effects. Some recreational users consume GHB in a manner similar to alcohol, sipping it slowly over an evening rather than drinking a full dose all at once. In this case the duration will be longer as the period of ingestion is stretched out over time.

The Experience
The effects of GHB at recreational doses are physically quite similar to those of alcohol. At lower doses effects include relaxation, reduction of social inhibitions, decreased motor skills, mood lift and other effects similar to mild alcohol intoxication. At higher recreational doses effects can include dizziness, difficulty focusing the eyes, positive mood changes, increased appreciation of music, dancing, and talking, slurring of speech, nausea, and grogginess. The line between high recreational dose and overdose can be a narrow one. At the overdose level, individuals may experience extreme grogginess (nodding in and out of consciousness) or unconsciousness, extreme dizziness and disorientation, and vomiting. During higher overdoses (poisonings), users may experience unconsciousness, convulsions, vomiting, and potentially depressed breathing.

Addiction Potential
The addiction potential of GHB is not well known, but from reports it appears that GHB can be both physically addicting and mentally habituating for a small percentage of users. We have received reports from a few individuals of severe withdrawal symptoms lasting for several days following repeated daily use. These symptoms include a strong desire to repeat the experience, difficulty sleeping, vertigo, and worrisome chest pains. We have not received any reports from users who find it difficult to stay off GHB once the withdrawal period is over.

Contraindications

• Do not mix GHB with Alcohol. This can be an extremely dangerous combination.
  
• Avoid mixing GHB with other depressants such as sleep aids and opiates.