GHB stands for gamma-hydroxybutyrate, a central nervous system depressant that is often used at parties or clubs.
Aside from the substance of abuse, the GHB drug is also known as a date rape drug because of its sedative side effects and because it can be easily slipped into drinks. For both the victims and conscious users of GHB, there’s one pressing question: how long does GHB stay in your system? Our Delaware drug rehab explores the effects of GHB, how long they last, and how long the drug can be detected.
Why GHB Is Used
Known as a club drug and date rape drug, GHB is a naturally occurring metabolite in the body. It inhibits a neurotransmitter called GABA, which reduces nerve activity in the central nervous system. Although the body produces GHB naturally, it’s usually in much lower doses than when abused. Recreational GHB can come in a white powder or clear liquid. The former is often dissolved into alcoholic drinks and given to people without them knowing. This drug is powerful enough to sedate victims, preventing them from defending themselves from sexual assault. These victims may also be unable to remember the events.
Aside from the facilitation of sexual assault, GHB is also used recreationally by many people who like to party or who enjoy the club scene. People intentionally take it to experience a euphoric high that enhances their experience at the club. A GHB high has also been marked by an increased sex drive.
Street names include Fantasy, Liquid X, Liquid Ecstasy, Goop, Gamma-Oh, Mils, and Liquid G. Bodybuilders also have a history of abusing GHB. It’s believed to promote cell growth, aid in muscle growth, and reduce fat build-up.
GHB has a high potential for abuse and can quickly result in addiction. As with many other drugs, casual experimentation can progress into a more frequent pattern of abuse. When this happens, a person’s mind and body become dependent on this drug to avoid withdrawals. Addiction tends to be the result of untreated drug dependence and is marked by uncontrollable use of the substance in question.
Banyan Treatment Centers offers medically monitored detox in Delaware that safely helps patients through withdrawals and helps them begin their substance-specific treatment on the right foot.
GHB Symptoms to Look Out For
Recognizing the symptoms of GHB use is essential for early support and intervention. Due to its well-known sedative and euphoric effects, GHB is well-liked among partygoers and people looking to feel more relaxed. It is a strong drug with a small window of safety. It should be used responsibly or, preferably, not at all, to prevent serious health problems and even overdose.
While the effects of GHB may vary depending on the individual and the dosage consumed, there are several key symptoms to be aware of.
Symptoms of GHB use can include the following:
- Euphoria and relaxation: Feelings of euphoria, or intense happiness, combined with enhanced relaxation and sedation can lead users to appear upbeat, chatty, and uninhibited.
- Sedation and drowsiness: As the effects of GHB progress, people may start to feel more and more sedated, sleepy, and lethargic. Even in the midst of a conversation or activity, they may find it difficult to stay awake or might fall asleep suddenly.
- Slurred speech and impaired communication: This drug greatly impairs motor skills, resulting in shaky movements and coordination issues. Users may stutter, have problems keeping their equilibrium, or begin trembling.
- Memory loss and disorientation: High doses of GHB can cause memory loss or blackouts, making it challenging for people to remember things that happened while they were under the influence. Additionally, they could show signs of bewilderment, disorientation, and difficulty focusing.
- Nausea and vomiting: GHB has been linked to digestive problems like nausea and vomiting. Stomach pain or cramps may also accompany these symptoms.
- Slow breathing and heart rate: Being a strong depressant, the use of this drug can cause dangerously sluggish heart rate and respiration. A weak pulse and shallow or erratic breathing are indicators of a potentially dangerous overdose.
How Long Do the Effects of GHB Last?
GHB side effects kick in within 10 minutes and can last for up to seven hours. GHB’s long-lasting high is the main reason why users take it during events like raves or parties that are meant to last all night.
How long GHB stays in your system can range between two and five hours, depending on the person. The more GHB someone takes, the longer it may take his or her body to rid itself of the drug. Factors like weight, age, dose, diet, alcohol intake, drug interactions, and metabolism can all affect how long the effects of GHB last and the duration of its presence in a person’s body. The GHB dosage and frequency of abuse can also affect how long it takes for a person’s body to release it.
GHB Drug Test Detection Times
Most standard drug tests do not test for traces of GHB. Few people will test positive, even if they’ve used it within a specific time frame; however, it is possible to detect GHB in a person’s urine, hair, blood, and saliva in tests designed to find traces of this particular drug.
Below are the detection times for GHB according to the type of drug test.
- Urine: GHB can be detected in urine for up to 12 hours after the person’s last use.
- Saliva: GHB can be detected in saliva for up to 6 hours in saliva after a person’s last use.
- Blood: GHB can be detected in blood for up to 8 hours after a person’s last use.
- Hair: GHB can be detected in hair for up to one month after the person’s last use.
Recover From Drug Abuse at Our Delaware Rehab Center
Whether you took it intentionally or you used it against your will, having GHB in one’s system can be incredibly dangerous. Without the proper interventions of our treatment center, users run the risk of developing harmful side effects that can affect them for the rest of their lives or, worse, end it.
GHB is a dangerous drug that’s used both recreationally and to facilitate sexual assault. If you or someone you know has become dependent on GHB or any other drug, call Banyan Delaware now at 888-280-4763 to learn how our residential treatment facility can help.
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