GHB
GHB (GBH, Liquid E, Liquid X)
Gamma Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) was originally developed as an anaesthetic, but withdrawn due to unwanted side-effects. Other uses have been for the treatment of narcolepsy, for the relief of symptoms when withdrawing from dependent alcohol use and more recently as a growth hormone stimulant used by body builders. The substance is currently circulating in clubs as an alternative to ecstasy or speed.
How it is taken?
GHB is usually available as an odourless, colourless liquid which you drink (it tastes slightly salty). Sometimes the substance is available as a powder, or in a capsule. In its liquid form, GHB is sold in small (30ml) bottles; this would normally be enough for three doses. It is difficult to give a clear safe dose, as the concentration of the liquid will vary.
What happens?
You can usually feel the effects of the drug ten or 15 minutes after you have taken it, although it may take up to an hour. In small doses, GHB encourages a reduction of social inhibitions, similar to alcohol, and an increased libido. At higher doses, this euphoria gives way to feelings of sedation. Some users have likened the experience to taking mandrax, a sedative that was popular on the illegal market in the 70s.
Physical changes?
As an anaesthetic, GHB works as a sedative rather than a painkiller. Most reported physical side effects are actually connected with taking more GHB than a normal recreational dose, when the drug starts to work as an anaesthetic. Common unpleasant reactions are nausea, drowsiness, amnesia, vomiting, loss of muscle control, respiratory problems and occasionally loss of consciousness. After excessive use, some users have experienced seizures and coma.
Keeping safe
The amount of GHB you need to take to feel the effects is very close to the amount needed for anaesthesia, and this is very close to the amount that can cause seizures or coma. If you decide to use GHB, start by using a couple of capfuls and see how you go. Many of the people who have collapsed whilst using this drug don't remember being ill, but actually think they have been dancing around and having a great time - you will be safer if you are with friends who can help if you get into difficulties. If you are with someone who is using GHB and they become ill, call an ambulance and take them to hospital. Let the paramedics or doctor know what they have taken so that help can be given quickly. The people who have been hospitalised after this sort of reaction have made a full recovery - in this country there have been no confirmed deaths from taking GHB. There is far more likelihood of serious illness or overdose if other sedative or depressant drugs are used - if you do use GHB, do not drink alcohol. Drinking alcohol on top is far more likely to lead to a distressing reaction such as respiratory collapse or coma. GHB is easily made from chemicals that you do not need a licence to obtain. Because of this, it is often made in underground laboratories (usually someone's kitchen) and the concentration is consequently variable. 'Safe' doses vary, depending on the source, and the physiology of the user - their weight, sex and general state of health.
Legal status
GHB is not listed as a controlled drug in this country, so possession or use of the substance is not currently illegal. It is classed as a medicine, and manufacture is regulated by the Medicines Act. A conviction under this Act carries a maximum sentence of two years' imprisonment and a fine of £2000. This law does allow the drug to be imported for personal use only.
For a legal alternative to recreational drugs, try some of our Herbal Stimulants, all of which give you the same high but with none of the side-effects.
This online advice guide is an extract from the book TOGETHER, by kind permission of Patriic Gayle and Gay Times Books. The book itself is over 300 pages long and contains:
several chapters more useful advice and information
more in-depth information in some chapters
more pictures and tables
further contacts at the end of each chapter
a comprehensive listing of gay and health organisations
Described by Qx magazine as a 'Gay Bible', Together Book is a practical reference work no bookshelf should be without.
Available from Prowler Stores and all good bookshops, or click the link below for price and ordering details.
Gamma Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) was originally developed as an anaesthetic, but withdrawn due to unwanted side-effects. Other uses have been for the treatment of narcolepsy, for the relief of symptoms when withdrawing from dependent alcohol use and more recently as a growth hormone stimulant used by body builders. The substance is currently circulating in clubs as an alternative to ecstasy or speed.
How it is taken?
GHB is usually available as an odourless, colourless liquid which you drink (it tastes slightly salty). Sometimes the substance is available as a powder, or in a capsule. In its liquid form, GHB is sold in small (30ml) bottles; this would normally be enough for three doses. It is difficult to give a clear safe dose, as the concentration of the liquid will vary.
What happens?
You can usually feel the effects of the drug ten or 15 minutes after you have taken it, although it may take up to an hour. In small doses, GHB encourages a reduction of social inhibitions, similar to alcohol, and an increased libido. At higher doses, this euphoria gives way to feelings of sedation. Some users have likened the experience to taking mandrax, a sedative that was popular on the illegal market in the 70s.
Physical changes?
As an anaesthetic, GHB works as a sedative rather than a painkiller. Most reported physical side effects are actually connected with taking more GHB than a normal recreational dose, when the drug starts to work as an anaesthetic. Common unpleasant reactions are nausea, drowsiness, amnesia, vomiting, loss of muscle control, respiratory problems and occasionally loss of consciousness. After excessive use, some users have experienced seizures and coma.
Keeping safe
The amount of GHB you need to take to feel the effects is very close to the amount needed for anaesthesia, and this is very close to the amount that can cause seizures or coma. If you decide to use GHB, start by using a couple of capfuls and see how you go. Many of the people who have collapsed whilst using this drug don't remember being ill, but actually think they have been dancing around and having a great time - you will be safer if you are with friends who can help if you get into difficulties. If you are with someone who is using GHB and they become ill, call an ambulance and take them to hospital. Let the paramedics or doctor know what they have taken so that help can be given quickly. The people who have been hospitalised after this sort of reaction have made a full recovery - in this country there have been no confirmed deaths from taking GHB. There is far more likelihood of serious illness or overdose if other sedative or depressant drugs are used - if you do use GHB, do not drink alcohol. Drinking alcohol on top is far more likely to lead to a distressing reaction such as respiratory collapse or coma. GHB is easily made from chemicals that you do not need a licence to obtain. Because of this, it is often made in underground laboratories (usually someone's kitchen) and the concentration is consequently variable. 'Safe' doses vary, depending on the source, and the physiology of the user - their weight, sex and general state of health.
Legal status
GHB is not listed as a controlled drug in this country, so possession or use of the substance is not currently illegal. It is classed as a medicine, and manufacture is regulated by the Medicines Act. A conviction under this Act carries a maximum sentence of two years' imprisonment and a fine of £2000. This law does allow the drug to be imported for personal use only.
For a legal alternative to recreational drugs, try some of our Herbal Stimulants, all of which give you the same high but with none of the side-effects.
This online advice guide is an extract from the book TOGETHER, by kind permission of Patriic Gayle and Gay Times Books. The book itself is over 300 pages long and contains:
Described by Qx magazine as a 'Gay Bible', Together Book is a practical reference work no bookshelf should be without.
Available from Prowler Stores and all good bookshops, or click the link below for price and ordering details.
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