What Is GHB?

GHB (gamma hydroxybutyrate) is a type of depressant. It's usually available as a clear liquid. It is known as a designer drug because it is made (usually in home basement labs) for the purposes of getting high.

Like MDMA (Ecstasy), GHB is popular with club-goers and at "rave" parties. When mixed with alcohol, it has a depressant effect that can cause someone to black out. This is why GHB is often called the date rape drug.

What Else Is GHB Called?

Liquid Ecstasy, G, Georgia homeboy, cups

How Is GHB Used?

Swallowed (in liquid or powder form, which is mixed with water, or as tablets)

What Does GHB Do?

GHB causes both a euphoric high (intense rush of happy feelings) and hallucinations. Because the liquid is odorless and colorless, it's sometimes slipped unknowingly into a person's drink.

Side effects of GHB use include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and vision changes. People who take GHB may become unconscious (pass out), stop breathing, and go into a coma. GHB use can be fatal.

Because both GHB and alcohol are depressants, mixing the two is very, very dangerous and can be deadly — even if someone has only taken low doses of the drug.

Because of its serious effects, GHB has led to emergency medical care for many young people and has killed more users than MDMA.

Where Can I Find Help?

If you or someone you know is fighting drug addiction, recovery is possible. Talk to your health care provider or check your state or local health department websites.

You also can get more information and support by calling 1-800-662-HELP (4357), or online at:

• CDC.gov
• SAMHSA.gov