A woman inquires about ghb addiction treatment in Los Angeles.

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.

A group treatment exercise during GHB addiction treatment in Los Angeles

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.

A man feels relief after discovering health coping mechanisms through ghb addiction treatment.

Ready to Talk?

If you, or your loved one, are ready to start your recovery journey today, please call 213-861-4445 or email us at admissions@westvalleydetox.com.

Ari Labowitz

Ari serves as the Clinical Director at West Valley Detox Treatment. He is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California and Idaho, holding a master’s degree in clinical psychology (M.A.). He approaches therapy from a strengths-based, humanistic perspective, fostering a safe and supportive environment for growth. With extensive expertise in drug and alcohol treatment, Ari has consulted for numerous recovery centers and brings a tailored approach to therapy, working with individuals, couples, and families to address unique challenges while emphasizing strengths. His diverse experience spans private practice, high schools, counseling centers, and corporate settings.

Ara Gemilyan

Ara Gemilyan is the CEO and co-founder of Celebrated Consulting Inc., the parent company of West Valley Detox Treatment. With a distinguished background in real estate, development, and international business, Ara brings a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and entrepreneurial spirit to our organization. His personal experience, having lost his best friend to substance use, gives him a profound understanding of the devastating impact of addiction, driving his commitment to making a difference in the lives of those affected.

Spiritual Practices

West Valley Detox & Treatment Services provides a diverse range of traditions and rituals tailored practices to nurture clients’ inner growth and healing. These spiritual
practices incorporate meditation, prayer, mindfulness, and exploration of spiritual
teachings to aid our clients in cultivating a deeper connection with themselves and their beliefs.

Nutritional Healing

At West Valley Detox & Treatment Services, we offer tailored dietary guidance and education so that our clients may discover the power of nourishing their bodies with nutrient-rich foods that support physical vitality and mental clarity. This approach highlights the link between diet and emotional equilibrium, empowering clients to

Mindfulness and Meditation

Mindfulness and meditation are cultivated through focused attention on bodily sensations, thoughts, and emotions. At West Valley Detox & Treatment Services, our clinicians guide our clients through this daily transformative process to promote concentration and clarity, enhancing their recovery process while harnessing a sense of calmness.

Holistic Movement Therapy

Holistic Movement Therapy combines physical activity with mindfulness. This experiential therapy is often included in our treatment at West Valley Detox & Treatment Services to support our clients in developing body awareness, reducing stress, and promoting a harmonious mind-body connection. Holistic movement includes mental, emotional, social, and/or spiritual components through practices such as yoga, tai chi, and dance, etc.