GHB

Not to be mistaken with GBH the crime, although there are reasons why people might confuse the two. GHB is a dangerous drug which can cause grievous bodily harm. That's because it's hard to tell the difference between a dose that gives a pleasant buzz and an overdose that could kill you.

ID: GHB, GBH, Liquid Ecstasy, gammahydroxybutrate.

Appearance and use


GHB is usually sold as an odourless liquid in small bottles or capsules. It's rarer but it does come in powder form. It tastes slightly salty. A teaspoon or capful is a normal dose. The effects start between 10 minutes to one hour after taking it and can last up to a whole day.

Cost

A 30ml plastic container is about £15.

Purity

The strength of the liquid varies wildly from bottle to bottle. And when mixed badly it can really burn the mouth.

The effects

• A small capful has a euphoric effect that makes users feel happy, sensual and uninhibited. As more and more is taken it acts like a sedative or downer and makes people sleepy.
• Too much and users feel disoriented and sick. Muscles can go numb or start to spasm.
• Excessive use can cause a fit or seizure.

Chances of getting hooked

You can develop both physical and psychological dependency.

The risks

• It is very dangerous and can be fatal when mixed with alcohol or other drugs.
• Users can lose consciousness, as it's hard to know what strength the dose is.
• Too many hits could cause sickness, stiff muscles, fits and collapse.
• No one knows what GHB could do to you 20 years down the line.
• Because GHB can really knock you out it's been linked to drug assisted sexual assault. And because it's almost tasteless it's easily slipped in a drink. In a Home Office report in June 2000, 123 victims of drug-assisted assaults were questioned and 70% of the rapists were known to the victim. One in five could not remember the assault but 70% felt physically unable to resist. *

* source: Metropolitan Police June 2000



The law

GHB is a Class C drug - illegal to have, give away or sell. Possession can get you up to two years in jail. Supplying someone else can get you up to fourteen.