Gamma hydroxybutyrate, or GHB, is often referred to as a club drug as it is most often abused for its euphoric properties. Some bodybuilders, however, utilize GHB for its ability to promote growth hormone release. GHB has also received a lot of press for its use as an assisted date rape drug since overall responsiveness is lowered in people who consume GHB, especially in combination with alcohol. Gamma butyrolactone, or GBL, is a direct precursor to GHB and is found in many commercially available solvents. This availability aids abusers in the creation of GHB. DrugWatch.org indicates the GBL and GHB have been listed as a schedule I drug. This means that the drug has not been approved for any medical use, provides an easy potential for abuse and the quality of the drug is not controlled by any governmental agency.
Drowsiness
Drugs.com indicates that there are several severe side effects associated with GHB use. Since GHB is not approved for use, regulatory guidelines for ingestion have not been created and the likelihood of overdose is increased. Moreover, since GHB typically created illegally, no one can predict what additives are found in the GHB that you consume. Each additive may have its own potential side effects to worry about. GHB by itself can cause severe drowsiness and loss of consciousness. If combined with alcohol, these side effects can multiply. If you lose consciousness, you need to be concerned about possible respiratory depression, which has the potential to cause you to stop breathing. Severe overdose can put the user into a coma that lasts an unknown amount of time. If you believe that you have been drugged with GHB either deliberately or accidently, you should seek help.
Memory Loss
Even temporary use of GHB can cause bouts of memory loss, according to RxList.com. The memory loss, linked to other side effects, such as hallucinations and confusion, have made GHB a dangerous club drug that has the potential to harm anyone who uses it.
Nausea
RxList.com and Drugs.com indicate that nausea is a typical side effect of GHB use. A general sense of nausea coupled with vomiting is possible. You should be supervised if you experience any of these problems. GHB typically stays in your system from one to three hours. Thus, if you experience any problems lasting longer than three hours, you should immediately seek help.
Seizures
Drugs.com and RxList.com both indicate that seizures have been reported as a severe side effect of GHB use. Since seizures force loss of muscle control and usually loss of consciousness, the potential for harm is vastly increased. Seizures have the potential to instigate serious head trauma that may be irreversible. Also, any risk of seizure indicates that operating a motorized vehicle while taking GHB should be avoided.
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