GHB Addiction Nightmare

GHB (gamma hydroxybutyrate) has been abused in the U.S. for its euphoric, sedative, and anabolic (body building) effects. It is a central nervous system depressant that was widely available over-the-counter in health food stores during the 1980s and until 1992. It was purchased largely by body builders to aid in fat reduction and muscle building. Street names include “liquid ecstasy,” “soap,” “easy lay,” “vita-G,” and “Georgia home boy.”Coma and seizures can occur following abuse of GHB. Combining use with other drugs such as alcohol can result in nausea and breathing difficulties. GHB may also produce withdrawal effects, including insomnia, anxiety, tremors, and sweating.

The abuse and addiction of GHB is a serious matter. The following is an excerpt from a true story involving GHB addiction:

“Several months ago I got to know a man who had been addicted to GHB for eight years. A former bodybuilder (who even modeled workout clothing with some awesome abs) and a contractor, GHB had taken over his life. His ability to discipline himself and work out was long gone. His body was clearly that of an EX-body builder. When I interviewed him on camera for French TV, he struggled to stay focused and finish sentences, something he attributed to the prolonged abuse of GHB. He’d lose his train of thought and in frustration say, “Trinka, I’m telling you. I wasn’t like this. It’s the GHB.” He was working as a contractor on a small scale. His marriage was falling apart.

I had met him through a doctor at UCLA (Dr. Karen Miotto) who was studying GHB, and interviewing users around the campus. She had introduced me to Dave and was planning to help him detox, but UCLA, like most facilities, had little exposure to the withdrawal syndrome from GHB. After talking with other GHB experts (and learning that it’s more likely a 10-14 day, intensive care situation than the usual 3-5 day detox), they proceeded with his detox—and what an experience it was for them all. By the time he actually went into the hospital, he had gotten even more confused and frustrated. About eight to ten days later, he would call me again, asking for his doctor’s number and oblivious to the prior conversation. Sometimes he remembered his doctor’s name and sometimes he didn’t. This happened three or four times. His wife had given up on him and was ready to leave; her three children didn’t need any more of this mess.

Then one day I got a call that he was in the hospital in detox. They were in Day 4, and the doctors were worried. He was experiencing bizarre episodes, despite heavy medication, and they were actually worried that he might not live through it. He did survive. Detox took 12 days plus psychiatric care follow up. For UCLA Doctor Karen Miotto it the worst drug withdrawal she had seen.”

GHB can take over your life quickly, so anyone using GHB or if you know anyone using GHB, make sure that the risks are well known to the user and make sure they get help immediately. Seabrook House offers programs dedicated to the detoxification and rehabilitation for GHB users, and they are tailored to their specific needs. Seabrook House is located in Bridgeton, New Jersey (NJ) and is an internationally recognized private and exclusive inpatient drug rehab and alcoholism detox treatment center. Contact Seabrook House today to get on the road to recovery from GHB addiction.