What You Should know About GHB Addiction
GHB addiction symptoms usually present when the individual becomes dependent on the drug. Most of the individuals addicted to this drug are usually teens and young adults as GHB is one of the drugs of choice for many high school and college students who make regular trips to parties and clubs. The drug is highly addictive and can cause memory loss, confusion, dizziness and drowsiness. It produces a strong sense of euphoria and helps to release inhibitions, while increasing energy levels and sex drive; it also causes the individual to become more affectionate and friendly.
GHB addiction is potentially fatal, and its addiction symptoms should be treated with urgency to prevent further damage and restore the person to a life of sobriety. If you or anyone you know is displaying signs of addiction, it may be time to seek help.
Factoid:
It is possible to detect GHB in hair samples several months after it has been consumed.
What Is GHB?
GHB is the abbreviated name given to gamma-hydroxybutyric acid. This drug is commonly used in cases of sexual assault and classified as one of the date rape drugs. It is a highly potent drug that, when used regularly, can cause a variety of GHB addiction symptoms. It is sometimes used as an anabolic steroid or to treat anesthesia. GHB has also been used in medicine in the treatment of narcolepsy, insomnia, clinical depression, alcoholism and cataplexy.
GHB is mostly available in liquid form but can also be sourced as a tablet, capsule or white powder. It is usually odorless and colorless with a salty taste; however, when mixed with other liquids, it may become tasteless, making it hard to identify. GHB is known by may slang names, some of which include:
- Energy drink
- G
- Gamma 10
- Bedtime scoop
- Cherry meth
- Easy lay
- Georgia home boy
- Salt water
- Vita- G
- Liquid ecstasy
- Liquid E
- Liquid X
- Soap
- Gamma OH
- GBH
- Grievous bodily harm
- Goop
- Gook
- Fantasy
- Everclear
- Somatomax
- Organic quaalude
Factoid:
GHB is a substance that presents naturally in humans, animals, small citrus fruits, beef and wine.
Developing an Addiction
Addiction to GHB is not uncommon and even short-term usage may lead to a state of dependence. Some short-term GHB addiction symptoms may include:
- Nausea
- Hallucinations
- Drowsiness
- Loss of muscle tone and muscle control
- Breathing problems
When GHB is taken for an extended period, as in the case of addiction, the symptoms may be much more severe and may even lead to death. These may include:
- Coma
- Slurred speech
- Difficulty with cognitive tasks
- Liver failure
- Convulsions (seizures)
- Death
Overcoming dependence to GBH may be difficult if you attempt it alone; however, with the help of counselors, treatment specialists and support groups, it will be increasingly easier to trounce this addiction, so do not be afraid or ashamed to reach out for help if you have any GHB addiction symptoms.
Common Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms from GHB vary in severity depending on the amount of the drug the person usually takes and how long the person has been addicted. Withdrawal symptoms that may or may not be present include:
- Hallucinations
- Delirium
- Increased heart rate and chest pains
- Vomiting
- Tremors
- Psychosis
- Nausea
- Excessive sweating
- Agitation
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Muscle and bone pains
- Restlessness
- Anxiety
GHB addiction symptoms and the withdrawal process should not be taken lightly as this drug can cause severe effects on the person physically, mentally and socially. Once recognized, the issue should be treated in a GHB addiction recovery facility where the person can get clean and free from drugs. Apart from providing counseling, we will discuss the available treatment options and help to place your loved one in a suitable treatment facility.
Factoid:
Studies have indicated that withdrawal for GHB can last anywhere from two months to three years after cessation of using the drug.
Get Treatment Today
Treatment for GHB addiction symptoms involves a multidisciplinary approach to help the individual get and stay clean. Benzodiazepines may be used to control seizures, along with antipsychotics for episode of psychosis and other medications including those for high blood pressure.
Other treatment modalities employed for treating GHB addiction symptoms will involve detoxification, behavioral and group therapy, and the involvement of medical professionals, treatment specialists, family and friends. Call now and get connected to a treatment facility suitable for you or your loved one.
Factoid:
GHB was first created by Alexander Zaytsev in 1474 and used throughout Europe in childbirth as a sleeping aid and anesthetic.