How to Recognize GHB Drug Effects

Many people experience GHB drug effects without realizing they used the Schedule I drug. Others purposefully abuse this substance commonly called a “date rape drug,” too. Although its natural form is an important brain chemical, manufactured GHB is both addictive and highly dangerous.

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), GHB has no medicinal uses. It frequently causes physical dependence for people who knowingly abuse it. So what are the recognizable GHB drug effects? How do you get help if you suffer GHB dependence?

What are the Recognizable GHB Drug Effects?

Rumors in the world of bodybuilding claim GHB taken orally helps increase muscle mass and energy. This is not true but does lead many of these devoted users to psychoactive drug abuse and the need for addiction treatment. Other people abuse the drug for a cheap high, at only five to 10 dollars per dose.

GHB consists of a clear, odorless, and flavorless liquid easily added to drinks. Or you use the drug through a powder, also usually added to food or beverages. When placed in someone’s drink as a date rape drug, GHB causes heavy sedation and amnesia.

Otherwise, if you suspect you consumed GHB accidentally or through a tampered drink, you possibly notice symptoms, including:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Vertigo and sweating
• Significant respiratory suppression
• Low blood pressure
• Slow heart rate
• Anxiety, depression, and amnesia
• Delusions and hallucinations

If you overdose on GHB, you notice some or all of the telltale signs of breathing problems, slow heartbeat, low blood pressure, seizures, and coma.

What are the Effects of a GHB High?

When used for a euphoric high, people typically feel GHB drug effects within 15 to 30 minutes. This time period depends on how much you use and the drug’s quality. Effects typically last three to six hours and include tranquility, sedation, increased empathy, sociability, and improved energy.

People who abuse GHB for these positive feelings sometimes develop physical dependence. This dependence follows tolerance. Also with dependence, you experience the ill effects of withdrawal, if you try to quit using the drug.

One of the most frightening problems for people purposefully abusing GHB is the drug’s fine line between safe dosing and overdose. This overdose occurs from too much of the drug itself or from mixing it with alcohol or other substances. Many people suffering from an accidental overdose on GHB suffer severe organ damage, brain damage, or death.

Help for Your GHB Dependence

If you suffer GHB dependence, you need help from a quality, accredited detox and rehab treatment center. Addiction therapy services and other treatment you need during this rehab include:

• Medically supervised detox
• Dual diagnosis treatment
• CBT, DBT, and EMDR
• Individual therapy
• Family counseling services
• Anger management

Beaches Recovery in Jacksonville, Florida provides these therapies and treatment methods along with detox at Tides Edge. Through these services, you or the person you love let go of the myths of GHB drug effects for the reality of lasting sobriety. You can live the life you want with the right treatment. Call Beaches Recovery now at 866.605.0532.