GHB Vs. GBL | Similarities & Differences

Gamma-hydroxybutyrate acid (GHB) and gamma butyrolactone (GBL) are both Schedule I controlled substances and are known recreationally as “club drugs” or “liquid ecstasy.” However, these drugs have a variety of differences and similarities.

GHB & GBL Similarities

GHB and GBL are central nervous system depressants, which are also known as CNS depressants.

Side Effects

Because GBL transforms into GHB once ingestion occurs, the common side effects of GHB and GBL are similar and may include:

• release of inhibitions
• drowsiness
• nausea
• headache
• dizziness
• weakness
• euphoric sensations
• weakness

Withdrawal Symptoms

Those who abruptly stop taking either drug may suffer from similar withdrawal symptoms. In fact, toxicity and withdrawal syndrome can result from taking large doses of the drug.

If withdrawal syndrome occurs, some of the symptoms a person may experience include:

• fluctuations in heart rate
• severe cravings for the drug
• muscle cramps
• tremors
• difficulty sleeping
• mental health problems such as depression or anxiety

Drug Interactions

In addition to the other similarities, there are a number of warnings associated with taking GHB or GBL. For instance, similar drug interactions can occur when substances are combined with GHB or GBL, including:

• stimulants
• amphetamines
• CNS depressant drugs such as benzodiazepines, alcohol, or ketamine
• MDMA or other chemicals such as 1,4-butanediol (1,4-BD)
• antidepressants

Warnings Of Sexual Assault

Because the use of GHB or GBL results in a release of inhibitions and a feelings of sedation, it may be used as a date rape drug. This can occur if a person pours the clear liquid into a soft drink, causing a person to ingest an unknown amount of the substance.

If this takes place, a person may be taken advantage of, which can lead to sexual assault. Due to the drug being available in liquid form, it can easily be undetected in a drink.

If alcohol is involved, the effects of the drug may be more severe due to the fact alcohol is a CNS depressant. This can lead to severe health problems such as cardiovascular or respiratory issues.

Overdose

An overdose of GHB or GBL can also occur, even if you add only half of a millilitre of liquid more. An overdose can develop quickly due to how fast the drug enters the system.

Symptoms of a GHB overdose may consist of:

• blurred vision
• loss of consciousness
• slow heart rate
• confusion
• seizures
• respiratory depression

GHB & GBL Differences

Although GHB and GBL have many similarities, they also have differences. For instance, despite having the same common side effects, GBL is stronger than GHB. When GBL is taken, the effects are more intense and occur more quickly than with GHB.

Medical & Industrial Uses

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that GHB works by affecting the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitters in the brain to provide sedation and treat those with sleeping disorders such as narcolepsy.

GHB is available in small bottles and comes as an oily liquid. Some who participate in bodybuilding may use GHB to stimulate hormones, although this is not medically-advised.

GBL, however, is considered to be a prodrug due to the fact it is an analogue of GHB, converting to GHB once it enters the body. 

Without GHB, GBL is individually used as a solvent. In fact, GBL can be found in stain removers, paint strippers, or nail polish removers.

Drug Addiction Treatment

For those of you struggling with drug use, detoxification, therapy, and other medical practices can be helpful in a professional treatment setting. For information on our inpatient and outpatient treatment options, please contact us today.