When they are sold as drugs they are usually sold as an odourless, colourless, oily liquid in small bottles or capsules and they both taste slightly salty. A teaspoon or a capful is a normal dose although the strength of GHB varies so it can be very difficult for people to know how much they’re taking, making it easy to overdose.

There is a form of GHB (called iGHB) that does come in powder form but is rare. Prices can vary from region to region, on average a 30ml plastic container of GHB costs about £15.

GHB has a medical use in the treatment of narcolepsy, while GBL has a legitimate use as a stain remover, rust remover, alloy cleaner, superglue remover and as a paint stripper.

What are the effects of GHB/GBL?

GHB and GBL produce essentially the same effects: feelings of euphoria, reduced inhibitions and drowsiness. The effects start after about 10 minutes to an hour and can last for up to seven hours or so.

What are the risks of GHB/GBL?

Taking GHB and/or GBL does involve risks. Here’s what it could do to you:

• Both GHB and GBL can cause unconsciousness, coma and death
• Even experienced users are at risk of death.
• Because GHB and GBL can really knock you out, they’ve been linked to drug assisted sexual assault.
• When mixed badly, it can really burn the mouth.

GHB and GBL and alcohol

GBL/GHB are particularly dangerous when used with alcohol.

The strength of GHB and GBL varies widely from bottle to bottle. At present there is little reliable evidence to determine the purity of GBL.

Can you get addicted to GHB and GBL?

Yes, repeated use is now known to cause dependence in some people.

Very severe withdrawals with delirium have been reported – especially in unplanned detoxifications when people have been unable to get GHB or GBL.

GHB and GBL and the law

GHB and GBL are both Class C drugs – but GBL is available for legitimate use in industry, but if someone supplies or possesses them knowing or believing that they will be swallowed and ingested, they are committing an offence.

• Possession can get you up to two years in prison and/or an unlimited fine.
• Supplying someone else, even your friends, can get you 14 years in jail and/or an unlimited fine

Did you know?

• A conviction for a drug-related offence could have a serious impact. It can stop you visiting certain countries – for example the United States – and limit the types of jobs you can apply for.
• Like drinking and driving, driving while impaired from using GHB and/or GBL is illegal – you can get a heavy fine, be disqualified from driving or even go to prison.
• Allowing other people to use GHB and/or GBL in your house or any other premises is illegal. If the police catch someone using GHB and/or GBL in a club they can prosecute the landlord, club owner or person holding the party.
• The Sexual Offences Act 2003 states that it is an offence to administer a substance, like GHB and GBL, to a person with intent to overpower that person to enable sexual activity with them. This is punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment.