GHB & GBL
What are they?
GHB & GBL are very similar drugs (almost identical, in fact) and so have similar effects such as euphoria, loss of inhibitions, an increased sex drive in smaller doses. In higher doses GHB/GBL can cause drowsiness, coma and death. They depress the central nervous system, slowing down the heart rate and respiration. Once consumed, GBL is converted to GHB in the body. They usually come in a clear, odourless and tasteless liquid form, which is indistinguishable from water. Users often put these drugs in water bottles so they can be consumed in dance clubs etc. without raising any suspicion. They can also be found in tablet or capsule form and have been referred to as "date rape drugs" when administered to unsuspecting individuals.
Short-term effects
The effects depend on how much is consumed. Individual factors such as body weight, gender, the strength of the drug, mood, physical and mental health, how you take it, where you take it and whether or not it is mixed with other drugs including alcohol also have an impact.
As with any drug, users should test the strength of it by using a small amount first.
GHB and GBL produce the same/similar effects – reduced inhibitions, euphoria and subsequent drowsiness. Side-effects can also include a decrease in breathing and heart rate, difficulty concentrating, and increased sensitivity to touch. In higher doses, GHB may produce effects such as nausea, vomiting, confusion, tremors, convulsions, blackouts, hallucinations, shortness of breath and slurred speech. The effects can start within 10-15 minutes but may take up to an hour and can last for up to 7 or 8 hours. Individuals can walk and talk while on GHB or GBL yet have no memory of where they have been and what they have been saying or doing. Using either of these drugs can result (quite commonly) in unconsciousness or even coma or death. Mixing either of these drugs with alcohol greatly increases the risk of overdose and potential death.
Long-term effects
The long-term effects of GHB abuse may include depression and mood swings, as well as chronically impaired memory and judgment, slurred speech, vision problems and drug craving and dependence. Symptoms of GHB withdrawal may include seizures, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, restlessness and delirium. Withdrawal from GHB can also result in death. High doses or an overdose of GHB can also lead to coma and death. If you do have a dependency on GHB and want to reduce or stop using seek medical advice.
Harm reduction
Users should avoid combining GHB/GBL with other depressant drugs such as valium, methadone and heroin as this can greatly increase the overdose risk.
Users should try to use a minimum amount. This is a very easy drug to overdose on, even if you take a small amount more than you are used to.
Users should try to be with someone they trust and who is not using the drug so that help is available if they do run into problems.
The law:
GHB and GBL are both Class C drugs – but GBL is available for legitimate use in industry. However, if anyone supplies or possesses them knowing or believing that they will be swallowed and ingested, they are committing an offence.
Possession can lead to a prison sentence of up to two years and/or an unlimited fine.
Supplying someone else, even friends, can lead to a prison sentence of 14 years and/or an unlimited fine.
The Sexual Offences Act 2003 states that it is an offence to administer a substance, like GHB and GBL, to a person with intent to overpower that person to enable sexual activity with them. This is punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
Allowing other people to use GHB and/or GBL in your house or any other premises is illegal. If the police discover someone using GHB and/or GBL in a club they can prosecute the landlord, club owner or person holding the party.
Driving while under the influence of drugs is illegal, and this can lead to a heavy fine, disqualification from driving and even a prison sentence in some cases.
If you are convicted of a drug-related offence it can stop you travelling to certain countries and affect the types of jobs you can apply for.
If you are using GHB/GBL (or any other substances), are worried about someone else’s use or would just like to know more, please contact us for more information