GHB / GBL
Substance
GHB/GBL/BDO
GHB/GBL/BDO is also known as G, Gina, Liquid Ecstasy, Fantasy, or date rape drugs. GBL (gamma-butyrolactone) and BDO (1,4-butanediol) are GHB precursors, meaning they are converted into GHB by the body. GHB is closely related to the body's own gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and activates certain GABA receptors. GABA is the most important inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain and regulates, among other things, the sleep-wake cycle, memory functions, and growth hormones. Depending on the phase of action, dosage, and individual metabolism, GHB/GBL/BDO can have both stimulating and relaxing/sedative effects. In medicine, GHB is used to treat narcolepsy and, in some countries, also to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms. [1] [2]
group
Mostly downers
Forms of appearance
fluid
Be careful when mixing substances!
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alcohol
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Ketamine
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Opioids (painkillers)
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Benzodiazepines
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Antidepressants/antipsychotics
Substance groups
zzZ
Consumption patterns
drunk diluted
dosage
GHB: 1–2 ml; GBL: 0.5–1 ml; BDO: 0.5–1 ml. The dosage depends on the dilution and is even more critical with GBL than with GHB, as not everyone's body metabolizes it at the same rate or in the same amount. When in doubt: Less is more!
Effect
Extremely dose-dependent and highly variable from person to person. The spectrum of effects ranges from euphoria, relaxation, disinhibition, increased sexual desire, heightened perception, talkativeness (verbal enlargement), mild dizziness, nausea, drowsiness, and deep sleep with unconsciousness (blackout). [1]
GHB/GBL/BDO have a sexually stimulating effect and simultaneously alter consciousness. Under their influence, you will assess situations differently. If you use GHB/GBL/BDO during sex, clarify boundaries, practices, and protection with your sexual partners before use.
Onset of action
10–20 minutes after ingestion
Duration of effect
1–3 hours [2]
Aftereffects
2 to 4 hours
Risks and side effects
The higher the dose, the more likely it is that headaches, nausea, confusion, dizziness, uncontrollable muscle twitching, or loss of consciousness will occur. [1]
Even a deviation of one milliliter, or mixing with alcohol, sedatives, or opiates, can lead to an overdose and life-threatening consequences, including death (respiratory depression!). Signs of an overdose include uninterrupted or barely disturbed sleep, unconsciousness, loss of reflexes, and breathing difficulties. It is difficult to assess whether someone is merely in a deep sleep or already in a life-threatening coma – in case of doubt, always seek medical help.
Long-term risks
Regular use can lead to sleep disturbances, anxiety, and tremors; there is a risk of addiction with psychological and physical symptoms. Chronic high-dose use (multiple doses daily) leads to severe physical withdrawal symptoms upon cessation, such as epileptic seizures, which can be life-threatening. Regular use of high doses of GHB, and especially repeated loss of consciousness as a result of GHB use (or combined use with GHB), carries a high risk of developing lasting impairments of thinking and intellectual performance. [1]
Safer Use
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The substances are odorless. GHB tastes salty, GBL/BDO soapy. GBL is highly corrosive, irritates mucous membranes, and puts a strain on the liver.
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Dilute GHB/GBL/BDO with a non-alcoholic beverage before taking it.
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Avoid mixing substances of any kind. Mixing with alcohol, benzodiazepines and other tranquilizers, as well as with opiates (including codeine), can lead to life-threatening respiratory paralysis, even in small amounts.
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Even if GHB/GBL/BDO isn't working (yet), don't take more immediately. Taking more often leads to an unintentional overdose.
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Avoid using GHB/GBL/BDO when you are alone.
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People with epilepsy, heart, liver or kidney dysfunction face life-threatening risks when consuming this drug.
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If you take this medication regularly (daily), only attempt withdrawal under medical supervision, as it can be life-threatening.