Gamma-Hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) is a naturally-occurring substance found in the central nervous system, wine, beef, small citrus fruits, and almost all animals in small amounts. It is controlled in many countries because of its potential to be abused. When it is used illicitly on the streets it is referred to as Juice, Liquid Ecstasy, Fantasy, Georgia Homeboy, Grevious Bodily Harm. GHB can be dangerous when abused and may need treatment in a drug rehabilitation center in South Africa to treat.

Although GHB was initially intended for use as an anesthetic it is no longer used as such because of its toxicity and side effects. People selling GHB often claim that it has weight loss effects and promotes body building, but there is no clinical data to back these claims. GHB has been implicated in a number of date rapes. People who present at drug rehabilitation centers in South Africa for GHB treatment could be expected to abuse other drugs like valium and alcohol as well.

GHB was first synthesized in 1874 by Alexander Saytzeff but major research for its use in humans was first conducted in the early 1960's. Its clinical use was discovered and it had some clear advantages over contemporary drugs that were available at the time. It was widely used in a number of European countries but problems with its abuse and the availability of newer drugs led to its decline. It is today still used in treating narcolepsy and more rarely alcoholism.

Illicit use of GHB has been prevalent for about 20 years. It was adopted in the club scene and became widely available at parties, raves, and night clubs. Because of its sedative properties it became infamous for its use as a date rape drug. GHB is colourless and odourless and so is easy to slip into the beverage of an unsuspecting victim.

GHB is a CNS depressent and has an intoxicating effect. At recreational doses GHB induces euphoria, increased enjoyment of dancing, increased libido, increased sociability and intoxication. At higher doses it causes nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, amnesia, and death. GHB effects will last from 1.5 to 3 hours. GHB becomes more potent (and dangerous) if it is mixed with alcohol.

Many countries have banned the sale of GHB. However because it is a naturally occurring chemical in the body certain chemicals are converted into GHB. These chemicals like gamma butyrolactone (GBL) and 1, 4-butanediol (BD) are made available at gyms, parties, and night clubs.

The likelihood of death while using GHB is increased when it is used in conjunction with alcohol or other depressant drugs. It is possible to overdose on GHB alone where death can be caused by respiratory failure, choking on vomit, or in motor vehicle accidents.

People using GHB can develop dependence which means that if they stop using GHB they will suffer withdrawal symptoms. These are unpleasant and can include sweating, anxiety, hypertension, and an increased heart rate. In particularly severe cases, withdrawal from GHB may cause symptoms similar to acute withdrawal from alcohol or barbiturates (delirium tremens) and can cause convulsions and hallucinations. Like other withdrawal symptoms these will last for a few days and may need medical attention in a detoxification (detox) center in South Africa. GHB withdrawal can have a second, delayed, phase of withdrawal which is characterized by mental clouding, anxiety, and paranoia. This will last another 2-4 days and should be assessed by a doctor in a detox center.

GHB withdrawal can be life threatening and baclofen is the choice of medication used in assisting with GHB withdrawal. Benzodiazepines are often ineffective in GHB withdrawal. Admission to an inpatient detoxification (detox) center is highly recommended.

GHB addiction can be successfully treated in drug rehabilitation centers in South Africa. These rehabs will use a multi-disciplinary team to provide a comprehensive GHB addiction treatment program. Followup care at a sober living house in South Africa will help to consolidate the lessons learned in the drug rehabilitation center. If you would like help in choosing an addiction treatment center in South Africa please contact us and we would be happy to help.