GHB

what is it?

GHB (gamma hydroxybutyrate) was developed in the early 1960s as a human anaesthetic but was discontinued due to unwanted side effects. It is a naturally occurring component of human cells.

GHB is used most commonly in the form of a chemical salt (Na-GHB or K-GHB), which is taken recreationally as a depressant with effects quite similar to those of alcohol. These salts are powders but are most often mixed with water for recreational use.

GHB is most notorious for a few cases in which it has been given to people without their knowledge (in ìspikedî drinks). It is more commonly used as a recreational intoxicant (like alcohol), a sleep-aid or a supplement for body-building.

how is it used?

GHB is usually taken orally in liquid form.

what are the effects?

GHB is a depressant. A small dose will accentuate the userís mood, making a happy user feel relaxed and uninhibited and making a depressed user feel more down.

With larger doses there is a risk of unpleasant side effects such as feeling and being sick, suffering from numb muscles and disorientation. Some people have had seizures and collapsed.

Effects will start after 10 minutes to 1 hour after taking the drug and will last for up to a day.

The strength of GHB varies a great deal. It is therefore advisable to take a small amount at first in order to avoid unexpectedly taking more than intended.

After use, there is likely to be a lack of energy for hours or even days.

other risks

GHB has recently been associated with ìdate rapeî.

Taken in strong doses or with alcohol, the effects of GHB can be physically disabling. GHB is difficult to detect in a strongly flavoured alcoholic drink. These qualities have led people to ìspikeî alcoholic drinks with GHB, with the intention of committing a sexual assault against the ìdisabledî victim.

The risk of having your drink spiked with GHB should not be exaggerated. American research has shown that alcohol alone is implicated in over 90% of sexual assaults. However, it is a risk of which you should be aware.

To avoid being a victim of any date rape drug, the best advice is not to accept a drink unless you have seen it being prepared and not to leave your drink unattended.

You should be careful about accepting any form of drug (including alcohol) from someone who is not known to you.

Symptoms of having been ìspikedî could include extreme drowsiness, slight nausea, slight paralysis of the limbs, blurred vision and audio/spacial disorientation.

If you think you may have been ìspikedî, it is best to stay with a trusted friend (not someone you have just met) and go to a safe place (your home/hospital/police station).

what is the legal position?

GHB is a Class C drug.

It is illegal to possess, supply or produce GHB.

It is illegal for occupiers of premises, or anyone concerned in the management of premises, to allow those premises to be used for production or supply of GHB.

Being unfit to drive under the influence of any intoxicant, including GHB, is an offence which is likely to lead to the loss of your driving licence. Getting your licence back and obtaining insurance after losing it are likely to be difficult.

Sentences, especially for supply (including giving or selling to friends), can be heavy. Possession of even a small quantity could lead to a charge for intent to supply. Sentences for drug offences depend upon the quantities involved, previous convictions and other relevant circumstances.

For further clarification of the current legal position please call our legal helpline or consult your solicitor.