Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) known as “liquid ecstasy”, is not an amphetamine, it is a recreational drug and it's use, mainly by young people and teenagers, is closely associated with alcohol, cocaine and other synthetic drugs.
Its peak effect happens approximately 30 minutes after its consumption, and the duration will depend on the dose taken. Toxicity is dose-dependent, since different taken amounts will have different effects.
Euphoria, disinhibition, wellbeing sensation and sexual stimulation are the main desired effects. As with other sedatives, as the dose increases, these effects give way to the typical signs associated with depression of the central nervous system (CNS), which may even lead to deep coma with respiratory depression, hypotension and bradycardia.
Diagnosis is reached through reviewing the patient's clinical history and a complete physical examination. Additional testing may include blood and urine testing, electrocardiogram and a thorax X-ray.
Treatment aims at symptom control and support, individualised in each case, requiring monitoring in a hospital setting.
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