“Liquid G” is a street name for gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB). It is a depressant drug often used at parties. Although a form of GHB has been approved to treat narcolepsy, this drug is most often used recreationally. People consuming “liquid G,” whether intentionally or unknowingly, can put themselves in danger. You must know how to recognize the side effects and when and where to seek help.
Since “liquid G” has become popular again, Promises Brazos Valley wants to ensure our community is informed about this drug. Although it may come across as a harmless party drug, people can use it to take advantage of others by rendering them unconscious. If you suspect you have been the victim of GHB dosing or believe you have become dependent on the drug, reach out to us today at 979.426.0086 to find the help you need.
What Is Liquid G?
“Liquid G” is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. It is formally known as GHB. Other street names for this drug are:
- “G”
- “Liquid ecstasy”
- “Liquid E”
- “Liquid X”
- “Scoop”
“Liquid G” is a clear liquid that looks, smells, and tastes like water, making it difficult to detect. Occasionally, the fluid may have a slightly salty taste, but it can still be easily masked by the flavor of whichever beverage it is mixed with—this is the typical way to dose on GHB.
How Is Liquid G Used?
“Liquid G” is a central nervous system depressant that slows down and depresses the body’s responses. It helps people feel calm, happy, and relaxed, making it a drug of choice at parties and clubs. The clear liquid is typically mixed with water, soda, or juice, although some people combine it with alcohol. Since alcohol is also a depressant, using it with “liquid G” can be especially dangerous.
What Are the Side Effects of GHB Abuse?
As a CNS depressant, “liquid G” can slow down the body’s functions, sometimes to dangerously low levels. Some of the side effects of GHB abuse include:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Slowed breathing
- Loss of consciousness
- Blackouts
- Coma
If you or someone you care about experiences the above side effects, you should seek emergency treatment. In the most severe cases, a GHB overdose can lead to coma or fatality, so it is vital to get help right away.
If you recognize the side effects of “liquid G,” although you have not knowingly used the drug, you should also request a GHB test at the hospital. The drug can be detected in your blood for up to eight hours afterward. If the test results are positive for GHB, you may wish to report the incident to your local police.
Is GHB Addictive?
Before trying “liquid G,” you may wonder if the drug is addictive. Like other CNS depressants, such as Xanax, you can develop a dependence or addiction to “liquid G.” How do you know if you are addicted to this popular party drug? Some signs and symptoms of GHB addiction are:
- Developing a tolerance and needing more of the drug to achieve the same sedative effects
- Having difficulty breathing
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sudden weight loss
- Mood swings and irritability
- Sleep disturbances
- Body tremors
- Paranoia and hallucinations
Some of the above signs are part of withdrawal, an indicator that your body has become dependent on “liquid G.” It is generally not safe to quit GHB cold turkey once you have become addicted. If you or your loved one wish to overcome addiction, you should seek the help of professionals.
Find GHB Addiction Treatment at Promises Brazos Valley
Party drugs like “liquid G” have the reputation of livening things up and helping people feel euphoric and relaxed. However, they can also lead to dire consequences. Promises Brazos Valley is here to help you or a loved one break free from this potentially hazardous drug. Contact Promises Brazos Valley today at 979.426.0086 to learn how we can help you overcome dependence on “liquid G.”