GHB, liquid, liquid ecstasy, knockout drops , …
GHB was first synthesised in as early as 1874. However, it was not until 1960 that it was first researched and described in depth. The colourless and odourless GHB was initially used as a narcotic. GHB is now also known as “knockout drops”.
Main active ingredient
- GHB (gamma hydroxybutyrate)
Legal status
- Illegal: the use, possession, purchase, manufacture and dealing of GHB are prohibited.
Forms of consumption
- Orally (dissolved in a drink)
- More rarely: swallowed in the form of gelatine capsules or powder
Onset and duration of effects
- Onset: after approx. 10–30 minutes
- Duration: 1.5–3 hours
Effects
- Euphoria
- Relaxation, soothing feeling
- Disinhibition, urge to talk
- Intensification of perceptions, heightened emotions
- Dizziness, drowsiness
Risks and side effects
- Confusion, memory disorders
- Headache, palpitations, raised blood pressure
- Nausea, vomiting
- Drowsiness, immobility, loss of consciousness, coma
- Breathing difficulties potentially extending to respiratory arrest
- Muscle twitching, disappearance of reflexes
Long-term risks
- Addiction
- Sleep disorders
- Anxiety
- Tremors
Good to know …
- The effect of GHB is extremely dependent on the dose and varies greatly from one person to the next.
- Dosing GHB is very difficult. There is a very fine line between the dose to achieve the desired effect and an overdose. The risk of an accidental overdose is high even among experienced users.
- GHB is often associated with the clubbing scene. However, it is also consumed at home. Reasons for this can include, for example, to relax or to heighten and stimulate sexual activities.
- GHB has a high potential to become addictive. If used chronically in high doses, severe physical withdrawal symptoms can occur when the user tries to stop it. Medical help should be sought when coming off GHB.
GHB = knockout drops?
GHB is generally consumed voluntarily to achieve the desired effects described above. As GHB is an odourless and colourless liquid, it is one of a number of substances that can be misused as “knockout drops” and as “rape drug”. It is therefore important to never let your drink out of your sight at parties or festivals. If you get dizzy at a party and feel like you are “wrapped in cotton wool”, this could be the first sign of knockout drops, and you should immediately seek help or call 112.
What is GBL?
GBL (gamma-butyrolactone) is a clear, colourless liquid and is used, for example, in solvents and detergents. Like GHB, GBL is also sold on the black market as “liquid ecstasy”. GBL (like 1.4‑Butanediol) is converted into GHB in the body and therefore has the same effect. However, GBL is significantly more potent than GHB. Solvents with GBL can contain impurities from the manufacturing process. In addition, GBL is a strong acid that can damage the mucous membranes. It is even harder to dilute GBL to the necessary ratio than it is with GHB.
In the event of any doubt: less is more!
There is no such thing as a risk-free consumption of legal and illegal drugs!
When consuming any legal and / or illegal drug, the subjectively perceived effects depend on various factors (how consumed, dose, age, gender, environment, mood as well as experience and expectation).
Consumption of any drug can result in addiction.
The consumption of legal and illegal drugs is to be discouraged:
- During adolescence (physical and mental development)
- When driving and during other activities requiring a “clear head” (e.g. sport, when operating machinery, …)
- At the workplace / at school
- During pregnancy and breastfeeding
- If there are previous medical conditions
Particular care is also required:
- If the quality of the product is unknown and cannot be checked
- In the event of combined use, e.g. alcohol and other drug
- When medication is taken at the same time
If you notice that a person is not well after having consumed legal or illegal drugs, act responsibly and look after that person. If in doubt, phone the emergency number and administer first aid.