GHB stands for gamma-hydroxybutyrate. It is a depressant drug, just like alcohol, marijuana and heroin, which means it slows down brain activity and the central nervous system. GHB usually comes in the form of a colorless, odorless liquid. This makes it easy to dilute it in alcohol or other beverages. It tastes like salt water, but a sweet or strong-flavored drink can easily mask the taste, which is why GHB is also known as the "date rape" drug. It is popular among teenagers in dance clubs because of its euphoric effects, and because it is said to cause sexual arousal in moderate doses.
GHB can be very dangerous if mixed with alcohol or other drugs. In small doses, GHB acts as a mild sedative, slowing the heart rate and breathing rate. It can also reduce someone's ability to think logically, and produce physical weakness or unconsciousness. Effects kick in within 10 minutes and can last as long as four hours. But it's very easy to overdose on the drug, since determining the safe dosage depends on someone's body weight, general health, and the concentration of the liquid. Overdosing on GHB can lead to nausea, vomiting, amnesia, delirium, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness.
Common street names for GHB are "G"; Grievous Bodily Harm; Georgia Home Boy; Liquid Ecstasy; Liquid X; Fantasy; Great Hormones art Bedtome; Cherry Meth; Salty Water; G-Riffick; and Scoop.