G (GHB/GBL): effects, G-hole, overdose and harm-reduction rules

GHB, GBL: what are they?

According to AIDES, GHB is an anaesthetic for medical use, and GBL an industrial solvent that the body turns into GHB: their effects are almost identical, and liquids sold as “GHB” are nearly always GBL. On the scene it’s just “G”. Sida Info Plus describes it as a depressant giving an alcohol-like euphoria, lightness and sociability, and calls it an extremely addictive substance.

Effects

According to AIDES: at low doses, euphoria, disinhibition, relaxation, heightened sensuality; at higher doses, sleep. Effects start within 10 to 20 minutes and last 2 to 4 hours. The effective dose varies hugely between people and with tiredness, food or the batch: that’s what makes G so hard to dose.

G-hole and overdose

AIDES warns: you don’t always wake up from a G-hole (blackout, unconsciousness as if under anaesthetic). It can be followed by coma and death. In overdose: nausea, vomiting, low body temperature, spasms, breathing difficulties, seizures, coma. Memory loss can persist.

6 harm-reduction rules

From the AIDES leaflet:

1. Never alcohol before, during or after: “alcohol combined with GHB/GBL causes comas”. Even a beer a while before is enough.
2. Measure precisely with a needle-free syringe or a GHB measuring device, free from AIDES and harm-reduction charities in France.
3. At least 2 hours between doses. Record the time (photo on your phone, G-Track sheet).
4. Never alone: use among partners who look out for each other.
5. No benzodiazepines, sleeping pills, opioids: respiratory depression (dangerous combinations).
6. Collapse = emergency services: call for help, and never abandon a partner without being sure they’re out of danger.

If you’re on HIV treatment with a protease inhibitor, AIDES notes that GHB levels go up: reduce doses and talk to your doctor.

What to do if someone won’t wake up?

1. Try to wake them (call their name, shake gently).
2. If they don’t respond but are breathing: recovery position (on their side), so they don’t choke if they vomit.
3. Call 112 (15 in France), say what was taken and when.
4. Stay with them, watch their breathing, don’t give them anything to drink.

Consent

G alters consciousness. AIDES stresses that consent is essential: someone asleep or in a G-hole can’t consent. G is also used in drug-facilitated assault (consent).

Dependence

Regular use (more than once a week) can cause sleep problems, anxiety, tremors and physical or psychological dependence; stopping suddenly can be dangerous and needs medical support. Help in France: AIDES (+33 7 62 93 22 29), Drogues Info Service (0 800 23 13 13).