Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is a clear, slightly salty liquid that is usually taken orally, sometimes mixed into a drink. It’s a naturally occurring chemical that’s produced by the body, but it’s only present in very small amounts. When someone consumes more, it can become highly addictive.
Because it acts as a central nervous system depressant, a synthetic version was eventually developed as a general anesthetic. It did this job well, but the relaxation, euphoria, and sociability it created also made it popular as a party drug among the LGBTQ community.
The Short and Long-Term Effects of GHB Abuse
GHB has a reputation as a sex drug both inside and outside the LGBTQ community. It is also especially well known as an insidious date rape drug. As a sedative meant for temporary anesthesia, it’s fast acting and the effects only last for a few hours. Offenders take advantage of this, and victims are often left with little memory of what actually occurred. What they do recall may be blurred by hallucinations and distorted perception.
Whether someone is unknowingly given GHB or becomes addicted to it as a club drug, its effects can be devastating. In the short term, it can lead to disorienting amnesia and cause a person to take extreme risks with their health and safety. Over time, drug addiction can cause organ damage and cognitive problems. Repeated central nervous system depression can leave a person with permanent respiratory depression and cardiovascular problems.
The body builds up a tolerance with continued use, and it takes greater doses to experience the effects. GHB is highly addictive and extremely potent, and increasing doses only increase the already high risk of overdose. This can be fatal or cause severe, irreversible physical damage.
Red Flags for GHB Addiction and Abuse
Before you can seek out GHB drug treatment, you have to be able to recognize it.
Side effects of GHB abuse may include:
- Extremely relaxed or sedated appearance
- Hallucinations
- A sense of euphoria
- Memory problems, amnesia
- Confusion
- Lowered inhibitions and risky behaviors
- Anxiety and/or paranoia
- Depression
- Mood swings, irritability
- Insomnia
- Heightened sex drive
- Nausea, dizziness
- Clumsy movement
- Financial problems
- Struggling in interpersonal relationships
- Unexplained changes in behavior and activity
How We Handle GHB Addiction at Our Agoura Hills Addiction Rehab
Our professional GHB addiction treatment center in Agoura Hills, CA provides tailored treatment programs for each and every client.
Our well-rounded, holistic recovery approach includes substance abuse treatment methods like:
- Medically assisted detox: Residential treatment starts with medical detox services, supervised around the clock to monitor and treat withdrawal symptoms.
- Addiction therapies: Professional therapy sessions, including dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational enhancement therapy (MET) to help individuals find the momentum to change.
- Dual diagnosis treatment: Individuals with co-occurring conditions are treated for both substance abuse and mental health
- Medication assisted treatment: If necessary, medical staff at our Agoura Hills drug addiction treatment center may prescribe medications to help ease drug addiction withdrawal symptoms or manage underlying conditions.
- Aftercare: Graduates can enjoy ongoing 12-step meetings and other substance abuse relapse prevention support for long term sobriety.
The Benefits of GHB Abuse Rehab at Del Arroyo Recovery Center in Los Angeles
What sets our Agoura Hills, CA rehab apart from other GHB addiction treatment centers is that we don’t just treat the active addiction. We use comprehensive, evidence-based treatment methods to end the substance abuse and work through the underlying issues, setting clients up for lifelong sobriety and overall success.
We understand the challenges of GHB abuse rehabilitation and strive to create a comfortable, luxurious healing environment. Clients receive compassionate support throughout their treatment programs, including aftercare and relapse prevention.
Take the First Step Toward Sobriety at Our Southern California GHB Addiction Rehab
GHB abuse can take a toll on a person’s health, career, finances, and relationships. If you or a loved one have a drug addiction and are ready to make a change, Del Arroyo Recovery Center in Los Angeles can help you begin your addiction rehab journey. Contact our friendly admissions department today to discuss your substance use treatment options and enroll in one of our comprehensive treatment programs.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapists in Agoura Hills, CA
Contact us today to learn more about our Los Angeles-area individualized addiction treatment programs and explore your options.