GHB (GBH, Liquid E, Liquid X) - or to give it its full name Gammahydroxybutyrate - is a synthetic drug which has been used as an anaesthetic. Around 1994 it began to appear on the UK club scene.

GHB is a colourless, odourless liquid with a slightly salty taste and is usually sold in bottles for up to £15 but sometimes comes as tablets.

THE LAW
It is not illegal to possess GHB. However, unlicensed manufacture or supply is an offence under the Medicines Act.

EFFECTS/ RISKS
GHB is a depressant drug which slows down body actions. Small doses (possibly one capful) will feel like having a few drinks of alcohol. Inhibitions are lowered and libido increased.

At higher doses (possibly a whole bottle) it may cause sleepiness, nausea, vomiting, muscle stiffness and confusion.

Really high doses can lead to convulsions, coma and respiratory collapse.

The strength of GHB can vary greatly from bottle to bottle so it may be very difficult to know how much is being taken. A number of people have been rushed to hospital after taking GHB and recently a few deaths have been associated with consuming large amounts. Some people take it whilst on other drugs with unpredictable and possibly dangerous results, especially if the other drugs are depressants like alcohol.

Not a lot is known about the effects of long term use of GHB. However, it is possible that tolerance, physical dependence and psychological dependence could result. (info courtesy Drugscope)