💧 GHB / GBL / 1,4-B
Source: Harm Reduction Victoria · DanceWize Victoria SSB
Overview
GHB is a CNS depressant with a dangerously narrow margin between a euphoric dose and a potentially fatal overdose.
Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is a depressant that acts on the central nervous system, slowing down breathing and heart rate. In Australia, pure GHB is rare — most 'G' sold is GBL (gamma-butyrolactone) or 1,4-B (1,4-butanediol), both of which convert to GHB in the body. GBL is the strongest of the three types and requires the smallest dose.
All three substances have a very narrow window between a euphoric dose and an overdose. GHB is associated with sudden losses of consciousness called 'blow outs'. Long-term use leads to physical dependence — GHB withdrawal can be fatal and must be managed in a hospital setting.
Safer Using
Use in comfortable environments with trusted people present Use a plunger (slip syringe barrel) to measure doses to 0.1 mL precisely Wait at least 1.5–2 hours between doses — GHB doses stack on each other Record the time and amount of each dose; set a phone alarm as a reminder Avoid eating for 2 hours before taking — food changes absorption Be cautious with new batches; strength varies greatly between sources HYDRATE with non-alcoholic fluids NEVER mix with alcohol or other depressants Mark all G bottles clearly and add food colouring so it cannot be mistaken for water GHB absorbs through skin — wipe up any spills immediately
⚠ Avoid Combining With
DANGEROUS: Alcohol (especially risky — combined depressant effects easily lead to overdose and loss of consciousness); Ketamine, opioids and other depressants (overdose, loss of consciousness, difficulty breathing, possible death). CAUTION: Ice, speed, MDMA, cocaine and other stimulants — GHB slows breathing while stimulants speed it up; giving stimulants to someone having a GHB blowout is NOT a safe reversal and can cause heart strain or seizures.
🚨 If Things Go Wrong
Place an unconscious person in the recovery position immediately. Do NOT leave them alone. Do NOT give stimulants to try to reverse a blowout.
Call 000 — tell paramedics what was taken and when. GHB is not detected in roadside saliva tests but driving under its influence is illegal. GHB withdrawal is potentially fatal — if dependent, seek urgent hospital care.
Effects
Elevated mood, euphoria and relaxation Reduced social inhibitions and increased sexual desire Decreased motor skills and coordination, slurred speech Involuntary muscle twitches, grogginess and depressed breathing Blackouts and memory loss Nausea, vomiting and unconsciousness (lasting 3–4 hours) Seizures, convulsions and death Psychosis as the drug leaves the system Physical dependence (withdrawal symptoms within 1–6 hours of last dose)
Dose & Duration
Ingested orally. Approximate dosing: 1,4-B 1–1.5 mL; GHB 1.5–2 g; GBL 0.8–1.2 mL, approximately every 1.5 hours. Total Duration: 1.5–5 hours.
Onset: 10–20 minutes. Peak: 45–90 minutes. Coming Down: 15–30 minutes.
After Effects: 2–4 hours. Even after effects wear off, GHB remains active for up to 12 hours. Drug testing: Urine up to 12 hours; Hair up to 90 days; Blood up to 24 hours.