What Is Liquid G?

Liquid G is a street name for gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB). The drug is used as a depressant, and it has made headlines as the new date rape drug. GHB was scheduled by President BIll Clinton, putting it in the same drug category as heroin.

History

GHB was originally developed as an anesthetic. However, its use slowly declined because it did not provide the necessary and safe effects required for surgical procedures.

Abuse

GHB is abused as an additive placed into drinks to relax. The drug is also used by bodybuilders as a way to increase muscle mass from workouts. Before it was made illegal, it was added to some weightlifting supplements.

Effects

GHB is naturally produced by the brain. When a drug user takes Liquid G, it increases serotonin (the "happy" neurotransmitter) and acetylcholine, and lowers amounts of dopamine.

Considerations

GHB has overdose potential, and it has been linked to date rape and deaths. GHB should not be used with other depressants such as opiates and alcohol. Combining depressants can lead to cardiac arrest and breathing troubles.

Identification

Liquid G is usually stored in a small bottle such as an eye dropper container or vial. GHB has a salty and chemical taste, and it's usually placed in sweet sodas or fruit to disguise its mix into food.

References

• Office of National Drug Control Policy
• University of Washington
• University of Connecticut