The impact of gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB) legal restrictions on patterns of use: Results from an International Survey

Abstract

Aims-To conduct an Internet-based survey of GHB use, identifying differences by respondent residence.Methods-We recruited GHB-knowledgeable persons via "social networking Internet sites." Individuals (n=314) or groups (n=66) were approached based on GHB-use testimonials. Data collected-location, use, reason for cessation (if applicable).Findings-We recruited 155 GHB users. U.S. respondents (53 of 70; 76%) compared to non-U.S. respondents (38 of 85; 45%) were older and more highly educated (p<0.05) but manifest a 3-fold greater adjusted odds of GHB cessation (Odds Ratio [OR] 3.1; 95% CI 1.4-6.9; p < 0.05). Of the 80 respondents stating reason for cessation, 36 (45%) cited legal risk, price, or access; 44 (55%) cited health or related concerns. U.S. compared to non-U.S. respondents more frequently invoked legal and related concerns (OR 2.5; 95% CI 0.99-6.3; p=0.05). In a nested analysis, narrowly stated legal (n=4/5 U.S.) versus health (n=6/18 U.S.) reasons differed by location (p=0.048, one-tailed).

The interest in eight new psychoactive substances before and after scheduling

“…that they are sold openly on the web) will make classification have a more direct effect on the supply. There are some indications that this is indeed so (Anderson et al, 2010;Advisory, 2011;Carhart-Harris et al, 2011;Stogner et al, 2012;Loeffler and Craig, 2013) but there are also reports of users whose use seem to be relatively unaffected by the legal status (Winstock et al, 2010;Wood et al, 2012). Interestingly, a few reports support the notion that scheduling removes the substance from the web, at least from websites on the 'surface web', but might remain available via more 'traditional' routes such as street dealers (Winstock et al, 2010;Advisory, 2011) and possibly from "dark net" websites as well.…”