“Club Drugs” are psychoactive drugs used for their hypnotic like effects, and are gaining in popularity, moving beyond the walls of clubs and all night trance parties. One of these club drugs, GHB, has shown its true colors recently, as a highly addictive drug. At Narconon Vista Bay, we have seen the increase in GHB related addictions entering our program. Because it is our mission to keep the community up to date with drug related information, we feel it necessary to inform the public of this alarming rise.
What is GHB?
GHB, gamma hydroxybutyrate, is a synthetic drug that was initially formulated to aid with sleep disorders. It is a central nervous system depressant. GHB comes as either a white powder or liquid, and is most often mixed into a beverage. It is used as an illegal drug in clubs, as well as illegally by body builders to stimulate muscle growth.
What does it do?
A low dose of GHB is likely to make the user physically feel nauseous, shaky, sweaty, and potentially suffer difficulty with breathing. At this same low dose a user can expect to psychologically experience relaxation, euphoria, a decrease in anxiety, confusion, hallucinations, and amnesia. At a larger dose a user is at great risk of falling out of consciousness, as well as slipping into a coma. It is very difficult to determine what level of dose you are getting, due to the different people making the drug and the use of various chemicals in manufacturing. This makes the threat of overdose on GHB highly likely.
Overdose Dangers
When it comes to overdoses of GHB, many emergency room doctors find themselves at a loss. There are many different effects on the body happening at once and thus becomes difficult to treat. A user can present unconscious, vomiting incessantly, or in cardiac arrest. The ultimate threat when it comes to GHB overdose is severe respiratory arrest.
Other Risks
There are many dangers associated with the use of GHB. Aside from the many scary side effects of being under the influences of GHB, there are even more frightening and harmful effects. GHB has also been called “the date rape drug”. Because GHB lowers a user’s awareness and control, many predators use this drug as a way of paralyzing their prey. It is well known that one should never leave a drink unattended due to the possibility of someone slipping GHB into it. GHB is both colorless and odorless, and is essentially undetectable until it’s too late.
Statistically Speaking
As of now, the popularity of GHB remains in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. It is most often seen in clubs, at raves, and on college campuses, as well as by an increasing number of teens. In 2007, 0.7 percent of 8th graders, 0.6 percent of 10th graders and 1.3 percent of 12th graders abused GHB. (MTF) Admissions to emergency rooms, involving GHB nearly quadrupled nationwide from 2008 to 2010, when more than 4,000 cases were reported. Since 2000 there has been over 100 deaths related to GHB.
Coming Down
The withdrawal associated with GHB may be the most difficult and life threatening. Severe insomnia, anxiety, and tremors are often suffered by the user, which usually resolves within ten to twelve days. Days four thru six are considered the peak days, where withdrawal symptoms are at their worst. Many people coming down from GHB will not remember their withdrawal, despite seeming coherent at the time.
How Narconon Can Help
At Narconon Vista Bay, we are well versed in the withdrawal and recovery from a GHB addiction. Through much experience we know the most productive way to assist clients through this delicate, frightening time. Our program stands apart in its holistic approach to recovery. At the Narconon Rehab Program, we believe that becoming drug free should begin as soon as one enters the facility.
Our clients go through a drug-free withdrawal, where they receive important vitamins and minerals to rebuild their stores. They will also complete the New Life Detoxification Program, to rid their fat cells of lingering toxins. Clients take part in 8 life improvement courses as well, arming them with the essential skills and techniques to living a productive life free from drugs and alcohol.
Seeking Treatment
If you or someone you know is suffering from an addiction to GHB, it is imperative that you seek treatment immediately. Representatives of Narconon Vista Bay’s Club Drug Treatment Center are ready to help you get started on the road to recovery. Please contact us toll free at 888-292-4999 or visit us online at www.vistabay.com.
Get Your Loved One Help Now! 888-292-4999