Thinking of using GBL/GHB?

What are the effects?

The effects of GHB come on very quickly (usually about 15 minutes) and lasts a few hours. Some of the effects include:

• Euphoria
• Hallucinations
• Problems with vision
• Heightened sensuality
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Slow heart rate
• Nausea or vomiting
• Memory loss
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness

What are the risks?

A big risk is that it’s very easy to overdose on GBL-type substances, because the doses are very small, and strength can vary a lot from bottle to bottle. This means the difference between the desired effect and an overdose could be a matter of millilitres. This is particularly problematic if you think you have GHB or 1,4-BD, and take a GHB-sized dose, but you actually have GBL, which requires a much smaller dose. There’s also an increased overdose risk when people re-dose too soon after their previous dose.

The sedative nature of the substance can leave a person incoherent or even unconscious, and unable to give consent. People who take GBL-type substances often report a loss of inhibitions and a higher libido. It’s important to remember that if someone can’t consent, it’s sexual assault.

GBL-type substances are central nervous depressants, which means it slows down brain activity, and effects bodily functions like breathing and the heart. This makes it particularly risky for people with existing heart or breathing problems, epilepsy, sensitivity to other central nervous system depressants, or general poor health.

While mixing substances is always a bad idea, this is especially true with GBL-type substances and other depressants like alcohol. Mixing them can lead to nausea, breathing problems and even death. It can delay the time it takes for the effects to kick in – this can lead to re-dosing which increases the risk of overdose.

Evidence is emerging that dependence on GBL-type substances can develop quickly, with rapid onset of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms like hallucinations, insomnia, tremors, psychosis, severe anxiety, chest pains, and muscle aches. These effects can begin within 1-2 hours after the last dose, and can last a number of days.

Withdrawal can pose serious health risks. If you’re worried about your use of GBL and want to stop using it, please get medical advice. You can also call the Alcohol Drug Helpline on 0800 787 797, or text 8681, for confidential, non-judgmental expert advice. It’s free and open 24 hours every day. Check out the NZ Drug Foundation for more information on managing withdrawal.

While it’s safest not to use drugs at all, there are some steps you can take to help reduce the harm from GBL:

• Low doses pose less risk – take extreme care because there is very little margin for error.
• Avoid repeated dosing.
• Avoid mixing drugs as the combined effects can be unpredictable. Especially avoid mixing GBL-type substances with alcohol, and other depressants like ketamine.
• Treat every dose with caution, and don’t assume the strength is the same as a previous dose.
• Make sure you are with people that you trust, and who have knowledge of first aid.

If you or someone you love has overdosed on a GBL-type substance, get immediate medical attention to make sure airways remain clear and that vital signs remain stable. Many people who end up in the emergency room for a GBL-type overdose will be intubated to protect their airway. You can find out more about this substance and how to stay safe through the NZ Drug Foundation.

If you have any concerns about your own drinking or drug taking, get in touch with the Alcohol Drug Helpline Call 0800 787 797, or text 8681, to speak with a trained counsellor – they’ll be able to provide you with helpful information, insight and support. They’re available 24/7, all calls are free and confidential. You can also chat with the team through the website.