Effects of GHB

 

The effects of GHB appear to vary greatly according to the amount used - a small increase in amount can result in a dramatic increase in effect.  One of the most dangerous aspects of using GHB is the small difference between an amount that produces the desired effect and the amount that results in overdose.

A further risk with GHB is that there is often no way to be sure that the drug is manufactured correctly.  Improperly made GHB may result in an extremely toxic mixture of GHB and the chemical sodium hydroxide.

Immediate effects

Generally, the effects of GHB are experienced within fifteen minutes after use and last for approximately three hours.  Effects of lower amounts may include:

• sense of wellbeing
• relaxation
• drowsiness
• induced sleep
• nausea
• increased confidence, reduced inhibitions
• dizziness
• headache
• increased sociability
• enhanced sense of touch

In greater quantities

An increase in the amount or strength of GHB used, may result in the initial feelings of euphoria being replaced by effects including:

• confusion
• agitation
• extreme drowsiness/grogginess
• hallucinations
• difficulty focussing eyes
• vomiting
• stiffening of muscles
• disorientation
• convulsions/seizures
• unconsciousness/abrupt short-term coma
• respiratory collapse
• amnesia (afterwards)
• impaired movement and speech

Long-term effects

There has been little research conducted on the effects of long-term use of GHB.  Apart from the potential to develop physical and psychological dependence, the health and social consequences of long-term use are largely unknown.