COUNCIL ON DRUG ABUSE

THE DRUG FILE

GHB

Street Names

liquid ecstasy
liquid X
scoop
Georgia home boy
goop
grievous bodily harm
caps

Description
GHB is a strong sedative, and is a central nervous system depressant. This is why GHB causes people to feel sleepy and slows down their breathing. It is a colourless and odourless liquid, but can also come in the forms of powder or capsules. It can be slipped into drinks and ingested, and the powder can be snorted and injected. GHB acts on the brain by affecting several neurotransmitters such as GABA, serotonin and dopamine. GHB is often referred to as a “date rape” drug, as it can easily be slipped into the drink of an unsuspecting victim.

Origin and medical usage
GHB was originally created in the '60s as an anaesthetic. It was also used for the treatment of narcolepsy and alcohol withdrawal. Today, it is made in illegal labs and has no accepted medical use.

Short-term effects
The short-term effects of GHB abuse include, but are not limited to, a decrease in breathing and heart rate, drowsiness, relaxation, decrease in anxiety, lowering of inhibitions, difficulty concentrating, and increased sensitivity to touch. GHB in higher doses may produce effects such as nausea, vomiting, confusion, tremors, convulsions, blackouts, hallucinations, shortness of breath and slurred speech.

Long-term effects
The long-term effects of GHB abuse may include depression and mood swings, as well as chronically impaired memory and judgment, slurred speech, vision problems and drug craving and dependence. GHB use in high doses or an overdose can also lead to coma and death.

Withdrawal
Withdrawal is what happens when a person stops taking GHB and experiences uncomfortable symptoms as a result of discontinued use. Symptoms of GHB withdrawal may include seizures, anxiety, trouble sleeping, restlessness and delirium. Withdrawal from GHB can also result in death.

Legal status
GHB is not legally available in Canada. The possession, buying, selling, trafficking or making of GHB is a criminal offence.

Signs that a person might be using
Signs that a person may be using GHB include, but are not limited to, severe headaches, change in personality or behaviour, mood swings, depression, problems remembering things that they did recently, trouble sleeping, confusion and a decrease in school or work performance.