gamma-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB; G; Xyrem; “Liquid Ecstasy”, “Fantasy”)

Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is a central nervous system depressant that is used as a recreational drug and has been associated with abuse and addiction. It is also known by the street names “Liquid Ecstasy,” “Fantasy,” and “G.” GHB is available in the form of a liquid and is typically consumed orally or by inhalation. It is not intended for medical use and is not approved for use in humans.

GHB can have potential risks and side effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. It can also interact with other medications and can have potentially serious interactions with alcohol and other central nervous system depressants. GHB is associated with a high risk of overdose and can be life-threatening if consumed in large amounts. It is important to be aware of the risks associated with GHB and to avoid using it.

It is important to note that GHB is classified as a controlled substance in many countries and may be subject to abuse and addiction. It is illegal to sell or possess GHB for human consumption in many countries. The brand name medication Xyrem, which contains GHB, is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of narcolepsy, a sleep disorder, but it is only available through a restricted distribution program due to the risks associated with its use.

gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) use

Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant that has been used illicitly as a “party drug” and as a date rape drug. It is also sometimes used in the treatment of narcolepsy, a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness.

GHB is a liquid that is usually taken by mouth. It produces a feeling of euphoria and relaxation and can also cause drowsiness and impaired judgment. GHB has been used recreationally to enhance the effects of alcohol and other drugs.

GHB is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States, meaning that it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. It is illegal to manufacture, distribute, or possess GHB in the United States.

GHB is associated with a number of serious side effects and risks, including:

Drowsiness and impaired judgment: GHB can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to think and react. You should not operate heavy machinery or drive while taking GHB.
Memory loss: GHB can cause memory loss, including “blackouts” in which you are unable to remember events that occurred while you were under the influence of the drug.
Overdose: GHB can cause overdose, which can lead to coma and death.
Dependence: GHB can be addictive and can lead to physical and psychological dependence.
Withdrawal: GHB can cause withdrawal symptoms, including tremors, anxiety, and psychosis, when use is stopped.

If you or someone you know is using GHB, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. GHB can be dangerous and can cause serious health problems, including overdose and death.

gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) effects

Some of the effects of GHB may include:

Euphoria: GHB can produce a feeling of euphoria or a “high.”
Relaxation: GHB can cause a feeling of relaxation and calmness.
Drowsiness: GHB can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to think and react.
Impaired judgment: GHB can impair your judgment and decision-making abilities.
Memory loss: GHB can cause memory loss, including “blackouts” in which you are unable to remember events that occurred while you were under the influence of the drug.
Change in body temperature: GHB can cause a decrease in body temperature, which can lead to hypothermia.

GHB is associated with a number of serious side effects and risks, including overdose and dependence. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these effects while taking GHB, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) contraindications

GHB is contraindicated in certain individuals and should not be used in certain situations. Some contraindications for GHB include:

Allergy: If you have a history of allergies to GHB or any of its components, you should not take GHB.
Respiratory problems: If you have respiratory problems or are at risk for respiratory problems, you should not take GHB. GHB can cause respiratory depression and may worsen respiratory problems.
Sleep apnea: If you have sleep apnea, you should not take GHB. GHB can cause respiratory depression and may worsen sleep apnea.
Alcohol or other CNS depressants: If you are taking alcohol or other CNS depressant medications, you should not take GHB. GHB can interact with these medications and may increase the risk of drowsiness and impaired judgment.
Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should not take GHB. GHB has not been studied in pregnant women and there is not enough information to know if it is safe for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

It is important to speak with your doctor about any contraindications for GHB before starting treatment. If you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking any other medications, it is important to let your doctor know so that they can determine if GHB is safe for you to take.

gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) adverse effects

GHB is associated with a number of serious side effects and risks, including:

Drowsiness: GHB can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to think and react. You should not operate heavy machinery or drive while taking GHB.
Memory loss: GHB can cause memory loss, including “blackouts” in which you are unable to remember events that occurred while you were under the influence of the drug.
Overdose: GHB can cause overdose, which can lead to coma and death.
Dependence: GHB can be addictive and can lead to physical and psychological dependence.
Withdrawal: GHB can cause withdrawal symptoms, including tremors, anxiety, and psychosis, when use is stopped.
Change in body temperature: GHB can cause a decrease in body temperature, which can lead to hypothermia.

Other adverse effects of GHB may include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, tremors, seizures, and changes in heart rate and blood pressure. If you are experiencing any adverse effects while taking GHB, it is important to speak with your doctor. Do not stop taking GHB without your doctor’s guidance, as sudden discontinuation can cause withdrawal symptoms.

gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) overdose

GHB overdose can be serious and can lead to coma and death. Symptoms of GHB overdose may include:

Drowsiness
Loss of consciousness
Coma
Breathing difficulties
Slow or shallow breathing
Seizures
Changes in heart rate and blood pressure

If you suspect that you or someone you know has overdosed on GHB, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. GHB overdose can be treated with medications that reverse the effects of the drug, but treatment must be given quickly to be effective.

If you are taking GHB or are considering taking GHB, it is important to be aware of the risks of overdose and to take the medication only as directed by your doctor. Do not take more of the medication than your doctor has prescribed, and do not take it for longer than recommended. If you are experiencing side effects or are concerned about your use of GHB, it is important to speak with your doctor.

gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) drug interactions

GHB can interact with other medications and substances, including other CNS depressants, and can increase the risk of drowsiness and impaired judgment. Some drugs that can interact with GHB include:

Alcohol
Benzodiazepines (such as Valium, Xanax)
Opioids (such as oxycodone, hydrocodone)
Barbiturates (such as phenobarbital)
Other CNS depressants (such as antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants)

If you are taking any medications, it is important to let your doctor know before starting treatment with GHB. Your doctor can determine if GHB is safe for you to take and can adjust your doses of other medications as needed.

It is also important to avoid consuming alcohol or other CNS depressants while taking GHB, as these substances can increase the risk of drowsiness and impaired judgment. If you are experiencing side effects or are concerned about your use of GHB, it is important to speak with your doctor.

gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) pharmacology

GHB is a liquid that is usually taken by mouth. It is thought to work by activating the GABA receptors in the brain, which leads to an increase in the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA. This results in a decrease in neuronal activity and leads to a feeling of relaxation and euphoria.

GHB is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream and reaches peak levels in the body within about 30 minutes to an hour after ingestion. The half-life of GHB is short, ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the dose, and it is metabolized by the liver.

If you are considering taking GHB or have been prescribed GHB for the treatment of narcolepsy, it is important to speak with your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of treatment. GHB is associated with a number of serious side effects and risks, including overdose and dependence, and should be used only as directed by a healthcare provider.

gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) chemistry

GHB is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C4H8O3. It is a colorless, odorless liquid that is usually taken by mouth. GHB is a naturally occurring compound that is found in small amounts in the human body. It is also found in some fermented foods and drinks, including wine and beer.

GHB is synthesized by the body from the amino acid GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) and is also produced commercially as a pharmaceutical product. GHB is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States, meaning that it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. It is illegal to manufacture, distribute, or possess GHB in the United States.

gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) history

GHB has a long history of use and abuse. It was first synthesized in the early 20th century and was used as a general anesthetic in the 1960s and 1970s. GHB was later developed as a prescription medication in Europe and was used to treat conditions such as insomnia, alcoholism, and narcolepsy.

In the 1980s and 1990s, GHB began to be used recreationally as a “party drug” and was popular among bodybuilders for its supposed ability to promote muscle growth. In the late 1990s, GHB gained notoriety as a date rape drug due to its ability to cause memory loss and impair judgment.

gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) society and culture

GHB has been associated with a number of negative cultural and societal consequences. It has been used illicitly as a “party drug” and has been linked to instances of sexual assault and date rape due to its ability to cause memory loss and impair judgment. GHB has also been linked to a number of deaths due to overdose.

In the United States, GHB is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, meaning that it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. It is illegal to manufacture, distribute, or possess GHB in the United States.

gamma-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB)