GHB

Gamma hydroxy butyric acid (GHB) is a naturally occurring chemical in the brain. It is a sedative drug classified illegal in many countries. However, it is believed that this chemical plays a role in protecting the brain against noxious injury.

In the past GHB was widely used to treat insomnia, depression and improve exercise performance. However, over the years it was observed that high doses of gamma hydroxy butyric acid produced excessive sleep. This led to an entirely new use for GHB. It has been widely used as a date rape drug in many countries. There are countless stories of women being abused after this drug was slipped into their drinks.

Gamma hydroxy butyric acid is odorless and colorless and can be easily slipped into a drink. It is also rapidly broken down by the body and hard to detect. Even though GHB has no medical uses, it is frequently used as a euphoric agent. It is a social drug which is frequently used at parties, dances and raves. Another common use of GHB is quick building of muscle mass by athletes.

With high doses of GHB the user can fall unconscious and breathing can be depressed. When taken for a long period of time, GHB can be addictive and causes withdrawal reactions if abruptly stopped.

In most parts of the world, GHB is classified illegal substance, or is only available for medical use. In the United States GHB is a schedule I drug, meaning that it has no medical uses and the penalties for possessing the substance are stiff.

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