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Drug Addiction
Classified as a central nervous system depressant, gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is a sedative. GHB is known to naturally occur in the body and may play a role in sleep induction. In the United States, GHB is a Schedule I controlled substance and to possess or manufacture the drug is illegal.
GHB is an illicit drug that is most responsible for drug-related comas in the United States. The drug is fast becoming one of the most common drugs used for inducing coma and has been used as a “date-rape” drug for many years. GHB was once used as a form of anesthesia, but because of severe toxicity and unpredictable clinical affects, it is not safe and no longer used. One of the biggest problems now gripping the country is GHB addiction.
People who most frequently use and abuse GHB are high school and college students. A vast majority of those who use GHB attend night clubs, parties or raves. Research studies also show that GHB is fast becoming the drug of choice for exotic dancers, strippers, body builders and professional athletes. GHB addiction is rising at alarming rates and affects people of all ages, gender, social and economic status.
Some people experience a variety of adverse effects from GHB use, which include but are not limited to the following:
A GHB overdose can and does occur in users who consume large doses of the drug. At higher doses and when used in conjunction with alcohol or other drugs, respiratory depression and coma can occur quickly. There have been a large number of deaths reported from using GHB in combination with other medications or illicit drugs.
With short-term use, GHB can cause a dependency to develop. When use of GHB is abruptly halted, a user may experience the following symptoms:
The symptoms of withdrawal may persist for several days or weeks. GHB withdrawal symptoms occur on a delayed basis and during the onset a user may experience cloudy judgment, severe anxiety, mental confusion and paranoia. Once the onset of withdrawal has occurred, a person will experience a whole other set of symptoms many of which are best handled in a drug treatment facility.
GHB addiction is a rising epidemic which produces serious and uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. There have been a large number of documented fatalities occurring when GHB is discontinued abruptly.
Because of the inherent dangers associated with GHB addiction, medical professionals recommend a person seeking to detox should do so only under the watchful care of a rehab/detox facility. Withdrawal from GHB is often dangerous and can even be life threatening and must be treated with the help of medical and rehab professionals. With extensive therapy, counseling and a strong support network in place, a person can make a full and complete recovery from the dangers of an addiction to GHB.
If you or someone you love is facing an addiction to GHB, there is help available. Please contact us today for further information.
