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GHB is a central nervous system depressant drug that has become a common “party drug” among young people. Most commonly produced in either a clear liquid or white powder, GHB is often mixed in a beverage when abused.
GHB can be synthesized in a lab but it is simple enough to create at home using certain chemicals. The production of GHB is based on the combination of GBL, a similar chemical compound commonly found in floor strippers, and drain cleaner. Illegal and home labs may also cut GHB with other unknown chemicals to increase its effects or decrease the production cost.
Some governments have approved GHB as a treatment option for people suffering from narcolepsy or alcoholism. However, it is illegal in the United States due to the high amount of young people who abuse GHB.
GHB can often make the user feel relaxed or drowsy, or create a euphoric sensation and increase the user’s sex drive. Due to its effects on the body and its undetectable nature when mixed into drinks, GHB is commonly used as a “date rape” drug.
GHB is considered to be an addictive drug and a mental and physical dependence can occur for someone who takes it often. When quitting the use of GHB, those who have developed a dependence may experience withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms of GHB withdrawal could include disorientation, epileptic seizures, or coma.
There are signs to look for in someone who may be experiencing an addiction to GHB. Someone high on GHB will often be more agitated and impulsive than normal. They may also show a loss of inhibitions and an increased sex drive. Memory loss, slurred speech, or loss of consciousness could be signs that someone has taken too much GHB.
GHB can affect people differently, causing a variety of different symptoms. Since it can replicate a stimulant in smaller doses or a depressant in larger doses, someone high on GHB may act like they have had too much alcohol or taken a stimulant like molly or ecstasy depending on how much GHB they have taken and how their body reacted to it.
GHB addiction treatment should be individualized to fit your personal needs, just like any mental health treatment. As GHB does not necessarily always cause physical dependence, an outpatient treatment plan may be suitable for some. Those struggling with cravings or withdrawal may prefer to enter a detox program or recovery facility.
It is also important to not work to deal with your addiction recovery, but also take a look at the mental illness that may be the underlying issues that cause addiction. Dual-diagnosis treatment takes an equal look at both the addiction disorder and the mental illness you may be facing. At Create Recovery Los Angeles we are here to help. Please call us at (855)-518-0222 to learn more.
is a boutique outpatient treatment program catering to mental health, dual-diagnosis and substance abuse addiction.
