GHB drug - Dangers, effects and help

Have you ever heard of the GHB drug? You may be more familiar with it under names such as "Liquid Ecstasy". This inconspicuous liquid has it all: it seems harmless at first, but can quickly become dangerous. From parties and clubs to serious emergencies - GHB is a topic you need to know about. Many people underestimate the risks until it is too late. Education is the best protection against the dangers that GHB can pose.

In this blog, we take a look at what exactly GHB is, how it works and the dangers associated with it. You'll also find out why it's so important to get to grips with the drug and where you can find help if you need it.

Let's take a look at this hidden danger!

What is the GHB drug?

GHB, also known as gamma-hydroxybutyric acid, is a synthetic substance that was originally used in medicine as an anaesthetic and to treat sleep disorders. Nowadays, however, the drug is mainly used as a Partydroge or in criminal contexts, as it has a calming and euphoric effect in low doses. GHB is mainly known in the club scene under the nickname "Liquid Ecstasy", although the effects with ecstasy ( MDMA ) actually has little to do with it.

The drug is usually in liquid form and has a slightly salty flavour. It is colourless and almost odourless, which makes it particularly dangerous as it can be mixed into drinks without being noticed. This fact has earned it a reputation as a KO-Tropfen introduced. While GHB can have a relaxing effect in small quantities, the dangers are enormous: even small deviations in dosage can lead to unconsciousness, respiratory arrest or even death.

GHB is strictly controlled in Germany and falls under the Narcotics Act. Nevertheless, the substance is still produced and traded illegally, which increases its availability in certain scenes.

How does the GHB drug work?

The effects of the GHB drug depends heavily on the dosage. In small quantities, the substance has a relaxing, disinhibiting effect and can trigger a feeling of euphoria. It is therefore often used as a Partydroge used. However, even at slightly higher doses, GHB shows a different side: the calming effects can turn into drowsiness, disorientation and unconsciousness.

Typical effects of GHB are

• Low dosage: Relaxation, increased well-being, slight disinhibition.
• Average dosage: Dizziness, slowing down, drowsiness.
• High dosage: Unconsciousness, breathing problems, potential respiratory arrest.

The combination with alcohol or other substances massively increases the risks. Alcohol and GHB affect the central nervous system, which can lead to a critical overload. This makes the substance particularly dangerous, as many users underestimate the effects and easily overdose on the drug.

GHB use: risks and dangers

Why is the GHB Drug so dangerous?

The consumption of GHB harbours considerable risks that are often underestimated. It is particularly treacherous that there is an extremely fine line between a perceived pleasant effects and a dangerous overdose. Many consumers do not realise how strong the effect of the substance is and unknowingly take too much.

The consequences of an overdose

A Überdosierung of GHB can quickly lead to life-threatening conditions. These include unconsciousness, seizures and, in the worst case, respiratory arrest. The condition of the body can deteriorate so abruptly that serious consequences are imminent without medical help.

It becomes particularly problematic when GHB is combined with other substances such as alcohol. Both have a depressant effect on the central nervous system, which significantly increases the risk of breathing problems or a complete circulatory collapse. GHB is not only widespread in the party scene, but is also deliberately used as a knockout drug to render people defenceless - a terrifying abuse that often has serious consequences for the victims.

GHB and the company

GHB is widely used in certain circles, especially in the club and party scene. Here, the substance is often consumed as a "mood enhancer", as it can have a relaxing and disinhibiting effect. Particularly dangerous, however, is the fact that GHB is also abused as a knockout drug to render unsuspecting victims unconscious.

GHB is colourless and odourless and can easily be mixed into drinks without being noticed. This makes the substance a tool for criminal purposes, especially for assaults. Many victims do not realise what has happened to them until it is too late.

Society is often ignorant about the drug. While many have heard of GHB, few know the actual risks or how quickly it can become dangerous. There is often a lack of education, both among the general public and in specific scenes where the drug is more common.

Prevention and help with the GHB drug

If you want to protect yourself and others from the dangers of GHB, there are a few things you can do. Prevention often starts with simple measures that are particularly helpful in the club and party scene. Here are some tips:

• Always keep an eye on your drinks: Never leave your drink unattended, not even for a short moment.
• Be suspicious of unknown persons: Do not accept drinks from strangers.
• Recognise conspicuous behaviour: If friends suddenly seem confused or dazed, take care of them and seek medical help in an emergency.
• Promote education: Speak openly about the dangers of GHB and KO drops to sensitise others.

For people who have already come into contact with GHB or have problems with the drug, it is important to seek help. Counselling centres and anonymous hotlines offer support and can show ways out of addiction.

Withdrawal and addiction: a vicious circle

Why is the GHB drug so quickly addictive?

GHB has a high addictive potential that is underestimated by many users. The body quickly becomes accustomed to the sedative effects, which means that higher and higher doses are required to achieve the same effect. This process can start gradually, but the transition to addiction often occurs more quickly than many people realise.

Sudden withdrawal is extremely risky, as the symptoms are not only physically but also psychologically very stressful. Those affected often suffer from intense anxiety, insomnia and even seizures. Without professional help, the withdrawal symptoms can quickly get out of control and, in the worst case, be life-threatening. It is therefore essential that withdrawal is carried out under medical supervision in order to avoid possible complications.

Conclusion: Why education about the GHB drug is so important

GHB is a dangerous substance that is often underestimated. Its prevalence in the party scene and its abuse as a knockout drug make it a serious social problem. The risks range from overdoses to serious long-term consequences and addiction. It is therefore important to better educate the public about this drug and warn them of the dangers.

If you or someone close to you is dealing with GHB, don't hesitate to seek support. A drop-in centre can help you find the right support and find a safe way out of addiction.

For more information on other drugs and their effects, take a look at our Drogen-Lexikon over.