What Is GHB?
Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) is a central nervous system depressant that is commonly referred to by several names, including ‘G,’ ‘Liquid Ecstasy,’ and ‘Liquid X.’ It occurs naturally in small amounts in the human body and is also manufactured synthetically. GHB is known for its fast-acting sedative effects, often used medically as an anesthetic or to treat conditions such as narcolepsy. However, its use extends beyond medical purposes into recreational and illicit domains.
GHB is frequently consumed for its ability to induce euphoria, enhance sociability, and increase libido. This clear, odorless, and tasteless liquid is usually ingested in liquid form or as a powder dissolved in a beverage. Despite its popularity in certain social settings, such as nightclubs and parties, GHB carries significant risks. Its narrow margin between the amount required for a desired effect and a potentially harmful dose makes it especially dangerous, with overdoses being both common and serious. Symptoms of overdose can include nausea, vomiting, unconsciousness, impaired breathing, and even coma.
The drug’s potential for dependence and withdrawal challenges, coupled with its use in drug-facilitated sexual assaults, renders GHB a substance of considerable concern in addiction treatment circles. Treatment centers focus on managing withdrawal symptoms safely and addressing the psychological grip of the drug on users, aiming for comprehensive rehabilitation and recovery.
What are the Signs & Symptoms of GHB Addiction?
GHB has addictive qualities that can be exacerbated when combined with other drugs and is often accompanied by other mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. When GHB is combined with other sedatives, alcohol, or hypnotics such as barbiturates, benzodiazepines, or other drugs that interfere with central nervous system activity, the result can be severe nausea, vomiting, aspiration, and dangerous central nervous system and respiratory issues. On its own, high doses of GHB can cause extreme sedation, seizures, respiratory depression, coma, and possibly death.
Other short and long-term adverse effects of GHB include:
- Profuse sweating
- Headaches
- Exhaustion
- Loss of consciousness
- Visual and auditory hallucinations
- Vomiting
- Amnesia
- Clumsiness
- Sluggishness
- Confusion
- Tremors
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
What is the Treatment for GHB Addiction?
After the detox process is complete, recovery work with substance use disorder professionals aims to change the thoughts and behaviors that contribute to and maintain GHB use. This part of the recovery process is best supported in a residential level of care where there is around-the-clock supervision, intensive addiction therapy, and ongoing medical support.
West Valley Detox & Treatment Services can offer Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for cocaine addiction for any individual needing additional support reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. MAT is supported by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and can be used in combination with the above treatment therapies.
West Valley Detox & Treatment Services is the premier facility for the treatment of substance use disorder and other co-occurring challenges that provides medical-assisted detox and residential treatment. Our highly trained staff are committed to providing the highest level of care for you, and your loved ones.
