How to Tell When a Teen Is Using GHB

GHB, a term used to refer to gamma-hydroxybutyric acid, is a depressant that slows down the activity of the brain and nervous system. It causes feelings of euphoria, increased energy and lowered inhibitions in people who use it, making it extremely popular among teen drug users. Luckily, there are certain warning signs to consider that may tell you when a teen is using GHB.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Know what GHB looks like so you can recognize it if your teen brings it into your home. GBH is a clear liquid that looks much like water and is easily hidden in household containers and water bottles for that reason. It unfortunately does not have a smell that can alert you to its presence, but if you find a hidden bottle of liquid in your teen's room, bring it to a medical professional for testing.
2. Consider excessive sleeping, dizziness and drowsiness exhibited by your teen to be a possible warning sign of GHB. Large doses of GHB often cause heavy sedation and may even lead to a loss of consciousness, especially when used in combination with other drugs or alcohol. If your teenager passes out suddenly or cannot be woken up easily, call 911 and seek medical attention immediately.
3. Be suspicious of overly happy and social feelings expressed by your teen, as GHB is known to have euphoric effects. This euphoria is usually accompanied by an increased enjoyment of music and other bodily movement like dancing, which is why it is widely abused among some teens in the nightclub and concert scene. If you notice your teen acting unusually blissful or dancing wildly to loud music, this may be a way to tell that your teen is using GHB.
4. Pay attention to any stomach-related issues that your teen experiences on a regular basis. Diarrhea and incontinence are often symptoms of regular GHB use. Also, vomiting is a common negative reaction to GHB use, so be attentive to the amount of time your teen spends in the bathroom.
5. Look out for lapses in your teen's memory, which may be accompanied by headaches if they are associated with use of GHB. GHB often causes difficulty with thinking and remembering, slurred speech and even hallucinations in extreme cases.

Tips & Warnings

• Other terms used for GHB among teens and other people who use it include "G," "liquid ecstasy," "liquid X," "cherry meth," "scoop," "blue nitro" and "Georgia Home Boy," as well as a wide variety of other slang phrases. It's a good idea to listen closely for use of these terms in conversation among your teen and his friends as a way to tell when your teen might be using GHB.
• GHB is sometimes used as a date rape drug because of its sedative effects on the victim. Its liquid form is easy to slip into a person's drink, so warn your teen about the dangers of drinking beverages given to them by strangers.