It is usually presented in small bottles or vials and is a colourless, odourless, bitter or salty liquid. It may also present as a bright blue liquid, and less commonly as a crystal powder. GHB is most often swallowed and due to its taste, mixed with juice – and may be referred to as such.
How does GHB affect the brain?
As a depressant drug, GHB slows down the messages that travel between the brain and the body. It directly impacts neurotransmitters that are responsible for regulating mood, relaxation, sleep, and motor control. GHB interacts with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that reduces brain activity which creates a sedative effect. When GHB amplifies these effects when it binds to the receptors – which leads to intense relaxation, euphoria, and decreases inhibitions. This also then slows down critical functions such as heart rate and breathing.
Dopamine, a neurotransmitter tied to pleasure, motivation, and reward is also affected by GHB use. While GHB may initially inhibit the release of dopamine, as its effects wear off a rebound surge of dopamine can then create mild euphoric feelings. Regular GHB use can disrupt dopamine regulation, leading to mood swings, decreased motivation, and potentially long-term impact on one’s emotional regulation.
Over time the brain and body adjust to frequent GHB use, and this can lead to lasting effects on both physical and mental health.
Short-term effects
The immediate effects of GHB are generally felt within 15 – 20 minutes and last for around 3 – 4 hours. These effects can vary greatly, depending on the amount used, the strength of the drug, a person’s size, weight, and health, whether the person is used to taking the drug, or if they have taken anything else.
Immediate effects may include:
- Feelings of euphoria
- Increased sex drive
- Lowered inhibitions
- Drowsiness
- Tremors
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
Overdose
If you suspect an overdose has occurred, call 000 immediately. (ambulance officers do NOT need to involve police).
Symptoms to look out for include:
- Vomiting
- Irregular or shallow breathing
- Confusion, irritation, agitation
- Hallucinations
- Blackouts and memory loss
- Unconsciousness that can last for three to for hours
One of the greatest risks with GHB use is that it can have unpredictable effects and increase risks of harm when mixed with other substance use.
GHB + MDMA = risk of heart strain and respiratory arrest
GHB + Nitrous Oxide (Nangs) = can cause impaired coordination, memory loss, passing out
GHB + Alcohol / Opioids / Ketamine / Benzodiazepines = can cause difficulty breathing, passing out, and possible death
Long-term effects
The information on long-term GHB use is limited, however some reported effects include:
- Severe memory problems
- Heart disease
- Hallucinations
- Extreme anxiety
- Breathing problems
Prolonged use has been linked to memory issues, reduced concentration, and impaired decision making. ‘This can affect daily functioning and create challenges with performing tasks which require focus and attention.
One of the main long-term risks of GHB use is dependance. The impact GHB has on brain chemistry, can make it difficult to stop use without experiencing withdrawal symptoms. These can include anxiety, tremors, insomnia, and hallucinations.
How and where to get help.
Understanding the long-term effects of GHB is an essential step for anyone struggling with dependency. Although recovery can be challenging, the health benefits of overcoming GHB addiction outweigh the withdrawal.
Please be aware that sudden withdrawal from high doses can result in seizures, slow heart rate, cardiac arrest, and renal failure.
If you or a loved one is struggling with GHB use and please chat with us about our Detox and Withdrawal services or consult with a healthcare professional.
If GHB is affecting you or a loved one, help and support are available. Contact our friendly and professional team for a free consultation.