ghb peptide FAQ

Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is used recreationally to feel “high” or increase sex drive. It is known as a “date-rape drug” because it may be given to other people to make them more passive, open to suggestion, and unable to remember what took place (amnesia). Although GHB may also be used for other reasons, it can cause serious health problems, and its benefits for any use are not well defined. A prescription form of GHB, called sodium oxybate, is approved for the treatment of narcolepsy. See Sodium Oxybate (Xyrem) and Lumryz for more information. Note: Nonprescription GHB products are not approved by the FDA. The FDA also does not consider GHB to be a legal dietary ingredient in the U.S. GHB is a schedule I controlled substance, which means that it does not have an acceptable medical use and has a high risk for misuse. Learn more about the legal status of GHB here.

The most common side effects of GHB are listed below. These side effects may vary depending on the dose you are taking or the specific product you are using. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

If you or someone else has used too much GHB, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222. In the U.S., GHB is a controlled substance that is known to cause serious side effects and health problems. It is not the same as a prescription product (called sodium oxybate) that is approved for the treatment of narcolepsy. It is best to avoid the use of nonprescription GHB entirely.

You should store GHB according to the product label. Most dietary supplements should be kept in a cool, dry location that is out of the reach of children and pets and not in direct sunlight.

The federal government does not consider GHB to be a legal dietary ingredient. Nonprescription GHB is a schedule I controlled substance, which means that it does not have any approved medical uses and is at high risk for misuse. These products are not regulated and have not been tested to confirm that they contain the ingredients stated on their labels. Keep GHB out of the reach of children, pets, and other people. Nonprescription forms of GHB are illegal to purchase, use, or provide to others. Some other chemicals may be sold as alternatives to GHB, such as gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) and 1,4-butanediol (1,4-BD). Your body turns these other chemicals into GHB, and they cause similar effects and side effects. Read product labels closely to see what ingredients they contain.

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not take GHB.

While less common, the most serious side effects of GHB are described below, along with what to do if they happen. Severe Allergic Reactions. GHB may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking GHB and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if GHB is right for you. In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following. Current and Past Health Conditions. Tell your health care provider if you have any of the following.

There are no known interactions between GHB and foods or drinks. Alcohol can increase the effects of GHB. The risk of having serious side effects, including coma and death, may also be increased if you drink alcohol while taking GHB.

GHB is a type of chemical known as a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. It works by slowing down the messages that are sent by your brain, relaxing your muscles, and bringing on a feeling of calm. It can also cause an intense feeling of excitement or happiness (euphoria) for a short time. As a street drug, GHB is most commonly used to cause a “high” or a sense of calm. It may also be used to increase sex drive. But GHB can cause serious health problems, including dependence, withdrawal, breathing problems, hallucinations, changes in behavior, seizures, coma, and death. See the Side Effects section for more information. GHB is also used as a “date-rape drug,” meaning it is given to other people without their knowledge to make them more passive, open to suggestion, and unable to remember what took place (amnesia). If you are concerned that someone gave you a date-rape drug or that you were sexually abused or assaulted, seek medical help right away. A prescription form of GHB, called sodium oxybate, has been approved in the U.S. for the treatment of narcolepsy. This prescription product is different from the GHB that is available as a street drug. Street drugs have not been tested to confirm that they contain the ingredients or the amounts stated on their labels. These products should not be used to replace treatment with sodium oxybate.

Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. In particular, make sure that you discuss if you are using any of the following before taking GHB.