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). Conclusions In the U.S., where GHB has stricter legal penalties, GHB cessation is more likely, with legal and related reasons more commonly invoked for cessation. These findings support a link between declining U.S. GHB abuse and more stringent restrictions; although other un-assessed factors may also explain this association. The Impact of Gamma Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) Legal Restrictions on Patterns of Use: Results from an International Survey

γ-Hydroxybutyrate–Associated Encephalopathy and Excitation Documented With Electroencephalogram and Video

“…9 At the same time, it is classified as an illegal drug in most countries because of its abusive potential. 10 Aims of illicit use refer to purported euphoric, stimulant, or aphrodisiac effects, 11 including application for drug-facilitated crime and use in athletic bodybuilding.…”

Electronic Effect Driven Specific and Sensitive Recognition toward GHB

“…γ-Hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) is one typical new psychoactive substance (NPS) and has been classified as a controlled substance in the United States, China, and the European Union due to its intense sedative effect, , where it is most commonly used in drug-facilitated sexual assaults (DFSAs) by criminals through disguising it in drinks, especially in liquors, occurring in social scenarios (e.g., bars) . Owing to the colorless and odorless feature, it is easy to camouflage and very difficult to perceive, and its fast metabolism, with a window as short as 6 h in blood and 10 h in urine, makes judging the exogenous intake or endogenous existence very difficult. − For the purpose of self-protection, there sparks a pressing need to develop a concealed, intuitional, and on-site sensing strategy to proactively detect GHB, preventing criminal behavior.…”