Gamma-hydroxybutyrate
Name(s):
GBH
Liquid ecstasy
BD
Nature
1,4 Butanediol (BD) is reportedly a tasteless substance and, like alcohol, is often mixed with juice and soda. When ingested, BD converts in the central nervous system into its chemical cousin, y-hydroxybutyrate, more commonly known as the date-rape drug, GHB. BD is marketed not only as a solvent but also as a nutritional and body-building supplement, to enhance everything from sleep to sexual performance to muscle building and fat loss. It can also be concocted from recipes found online.
1,4-Butanediol is toxic, addictive and potentially lethal. People take the drug recreationally to get a 'high' similar to alcohol, but without the calories. Unlike alcohol, the 'high' that they experience is difficult monitor so they end up unexpectedly passed out on the disco floor. The symptoms of BD overdoses included vomiting, incontinence, combativeness, decreased consciousness, respiratory depression and death, usually resulting from accident or a toxic coma associated with vomiting and aspiration. Although the long-term effects are poorly understood, frequent use of 1,4-butanediol can result in physical and psychological addiction and potentially severe withdrawal syndromes.
Coma and seizures can occur following abuse of GHB and, when combined with methamphetamine, there appears to be an increased risk of seizure. Combining use with other drugs such as alcohol can result in nausea and difficulty breathing. GHB may also produce withdrawal effects, including insomnia, anxiety, tremors, and sweating.
Incidence
Since about 1990, GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate) has been abused in the USA for euphoric, sedative, and anabolic (body building) effects. In the club scene it is also known as "liquid ecstasy", "somatomax," "scoop," or "grievous bodily harm." Reports from Detroit indicate liquid GHB is being used in nightclubs for effects similar to those of Rohypnol. As with rohypnol and clonazepam, GHB has been associated with sexual assault in cities throughout the country.
Broader
Type
(G) Very specific problems