Combining GHB and alcohol produces extreme euphoria and sedation. It is a dangerous mix of two depressants. The side effects of GHB and alcohol produce a very heavy intoxicated effect that can lead to sudden unconsciousness that lasts for several hours. It is similar to being blackout drunk but can happen with only one dose or drink, depending on the amount taken. Taking GHB with alcohol is very popular in clubs and at parties, and the combination is best known as the date rape drug.
At True Self Recovery, we are a fully accredited addiction treatment facility with residential, outpatient, and aftercare programs that are proven to help individuals succeed in their recovery. We build trust and open communication with each patient so they feel comfortable opening up about the issues that started the abuse. Therapists teach them healthy coping skills and show them that it is okay to talk about their feelings. For more information about our substance abuse treatment, send us a message using our online form or pick up the phone and call (888) 596-2608 today.
What Is GHB?
Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate, or GHB, is a central nervous system depressant and became popular as a club drug for teens and young adults for its euphoria, increased sex drive, and tranquility. It is often mixed with alcohol and can be hard to detect because it is odorless and colorless with a slightly salty taste.
GHB is an illegal narcotic and was categorized as a Schedule I drug by the federal government in March of 2000. It is produced in illegal drug labs with zero regulations, meaning the drug manufacturers can mix the drug with other agents or chemicals. It is very common for GHB to be mixed with drain cleaner, lye, or other depressants and chemicals.
At True Self Recovery, our team is well aware of the dangers of GHB and alcohol abuse. During recovery, therapists will teach you about the dangers of addiction and how it can lead to serious medical conditions, permanent brain damage, and a sharp decline in your quality of life.
The Side Effects of GHB and Alcohol Abuse
Combining depressants such as GHB and alcohol increases the risk of respiratory depression, slow heart rate, coma, and death. Despite these dangers, men and women continue to combine various drugs for the extreme euphoria, hallucinations, and physical sensations that it produces. If you or someone you know is combining GHB with alcohol, you should familiarize yourself with some of the side effects of GHB and alcohol abuse:
- Immediate effects – Taking GHB and alcohol together causes faster intoxication and severely heightened effects. After 10-15 minutes, individuals may experience:
- Intense euphoria
- Increased sex drive
- Lowered inhibitions
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
It is very easy to overdose on GHB and alcohol, which can lead to an abrupt loss of consciousness, which increases the likelihood of serious injury due to falls and accidents.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Men and women who try to quit taking GHB will begin to experience withdrawal symptoms 6-72 hours after the last dose. The length and severity of withdrawals will depend on the longevity of the addiction and the amounts taken. Common withdrawals include high blood pressure, rapid heart rate, insomnia, tremors, depression, anxiety, hallucinations, mental confusion, seizures, and other symptoms.
Signs of an Overdose
If you or a friend is taking GHB and alcohol, you should be familiar with the signs of an overdose. These include:
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- Respiratory depression
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
- Low body temperature
Understanding the GHB and alcohol side effects are important to know if you or a loved one is using GHB or other narcotics and mixing them with alcohol. Continuously combining multiple drugs can lead to polysubstance addiction and require extensive therapy to recover.
Join True Self Recovery for Our Substance Abuse Treatment
At True Self Recovery, we help veterans, stay-at-home moms, young students, and busy professionals who are struggling with addiction and need help with recovery. Our team is very familiar with GHB and alcohol side effects and the harm abusing these substances can cause. Our treatment programs are tailored around your individual symptoms, and we closely monitor your progress to ensure you reach your recovery goals.
If you or a loved one is ready for a positive change, pick up the phone and contact True Self Recovery at (888) 596-2608 today to schedule a tour and begin your addiction recovery.
