GHB

Introduction

Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is also known as ‘G’, ‘fantasy’, ‘grievous bodily harm’ (‘GBH’), Gamma G, ‘liquid ecstasy’ and ‘liquid E’. It is a depressant drug that acts on the central nervous system. It usually comes in the form of a colourless liquid although sometimes coloured blue for easy identification. It can also come in pill or powder form.

The use of GHB carries high risk of overdose, particularly as a result of respiratory failure. It is very dose dependent and a small increase in the dose can cause a dramatic increase in the symptoms which include nausea, vomiting, breathing difficulties seizures, coma. If someone overdoses on GHB and is not given medical attention, there is a high risk of death. The risk is even greater when used in conjunction with other depressant drugs, in particular, alcohol.

The links below contain detailed information on GHB from a range of reliable sources. If you are going to use GHB, it is worth getting informed so you know what you’re in for.

What is GHB and it's effects?

Visit the Australian Drug Foundation’s Information Clearinghouse for information on GHB and it’s effects
http://www.druginfo.com.au/article.asp?ID=GHBfantasy

A site from the NSW Health Department with user related information on GHB and it’s effects.
http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/public-health/dpb/publications/ghb.htm

Information and advice around GHB on the Victorian AIDS Council website.
http://www.vicaids.asn.au/content/ContentPage.asp?PageID=105

A page on GHB and its effects on the Australian Government’s HealthInsite health information website
http://www.healthinsite.gov.au/news/What_is_GHB_or_Fantasy_

Research articles

Fatalities associated with the use of γ-hydroxy butyrate and its analogues in Australasia
http://www.mja.com.au/public/issues/181_06_200904/cal10128_fm.html

The Victorian Government GHB education initiative

In response to increasing incidence of GHB use and overdose in Victoria, the Department of Human Services has developed a range of resources to increase awareness of the dangers of GHB. The initiative is the result of close cooperation with members of the drug and alcohol sector as well as venue owners, dance party promoters and licensed premises.

The materials include a suite of three posters, a fact sheet for venue owners and staff, the code of practice for running safer dance parties and voluntary guidelines to provide free or low-cost drinking water on licensed premises.

Code of practice for running safer dance parties
http://www.health.vic.gov.au/drugservices/pubs/dance.htm

Download documents

GHB - Frequently Asked Questions (87kb, pdf)

GHB poster - Where will you be going tonight? (409kb, pdf)

GHB poster - What kind of night will you have? (401kb, pdf)

GHB poster - What will the night be like for your friends? (377kb, pdf)

Voluntary guidelines to provide free or low-cost drinking water on licensed premises (84kb, pdf)

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