DanceSafe
On the Dangers of GHB

According to DanceSafe a nonprofit coalition of independent, youth-based harm reduction organizations, GHB (Gamma hydroxybutyrate) is an odorless liquid, slightly salty to the taste, and sold in small bottles. It has also been found in powder and capsule form. It is classified as a sedative-hypnotic, and was originally developed as a sleep-aid.

DanceSafe volunteers staff nightclubs and other dance events where they provide information on drugs, safer sex, and other health and safety issues concerning the dance community. The nonprofit is supported entirely through donations from individuals.

DanceSafe warns GHB overdoses will always cause loss of consciousness (temporary coma), and will slow down breathing. Sometimes, and particularly if mixed with alcohol, GHB can slow breathing down to a dangerously low rate, which has caused a number of deaths.

It's hard to find the proper dose with GHB. A teaspoon might be perfect one time, but an overdose the next time. It depends on body weight, and how much food is in the stomach, and other random factors. The effects may not peak for up to two hours, and many overdoses have occurred from people not waiting long enough before taking more.

Furthermore, the organization cautions that mixing the drug with alcohol or other depressants is extremely dangerous and has caused many deaths due to respiratory failure. Passing out on GHB by itself is also dangerous and potentially life threatening.

What to do if you are at a nightclub and someone falls unconscious or has a seizure is call an ambulance immediately, lay the person on their side (recovery position) so if they vomit they won't choke. Then make sure their air passage is clear and their chin is not pressed up against their chest.

For more information visit dancesafe.org