GHB

Otherwise known as Liquid E, Fantasy, Gamma-OH, even GBH. GHB stands for Gamma-Hydroxy Butyrate, Sodiun OxybateBefore you read further please note that this seemingly harmless fluid is very dangerous when mixed with alcohol !!!

It is an odourless, colourless, salt water-like tasting liquid. It is also available in a tablet or powder form, though uncommon. GHB is normally sold in small, 30 ml clear plastic bottles. Whilst GHB's most noticeable effect is euphoria, it can also be a downer. A small dose - half a capful - of GHB will make you fell relaxed and uninhibited, kind of tipsy. More can cause sedation, and will slow you down until you fall asleep. No hallucinations or visual effects occur and GHB makes you extroverted rather than introspective. With larger doses, noticeable effects include verbal diarrhoea, slurring of speech, drowsiness, nausea, incoherence, difficulty focussing and regrettable behaviour. The effects of GHB may become apparent after about 5-15 minutes, and come up strongly after 20-30 minutes. The effects can last for up to 2 - 4 hours.

One of the biggest dangers of using GHB is the difficulty of determining a safe dosage. It all depends on the body weight, general state of health and mind at time of use and also the concentration of the liquid. Taking too much GHB can lead to amnesia, respiratory difficulties and loss of consciousness. If someone passes out on GHB put them in the recovery position and let them sleep it off. Check their vital signs regularly to see if they are OK. They will awake a few hours later with no recall of their sleep. Other side-effects are abnormal muscle movements, and occasional emergence delirium.In high doses, GHB lowers muscle tone and slows reaction time. This interferes with co-ordination and the ability to operate mechanical equipment. Driving after taking GHB can be considered to be more dangerous than driving under the influence of alcohol. Some users have reported that it is habit forming if used regularly.

Reports have been received of GHB being used as an aphrodisiac since in moderate doses it can cause sexual arousement. This is one of the reasons why it has a reputation as a 'date-rape' drug, the other being the obvious danger of being unconscious for a few hours.People who suffer from hypertension, heart disorders, or epilepsy should avoid using GHB. It should not be mixed with opiods and other skeletal muscle relaxants - it enhances their effects and could be extremely dangerous.

DO NOT MIX GHB WITH ALCOHOL !!!! Both alcohol & GHB have a sedative effect on your body, hence mixing the two can lead to deep unconsciousness for a few hours, put you into a coma - even cause death !