Gamma-Hydro butyric acid (GHB) is a naturally occurring substance. Trace amounts of GHB can be found in beef, wine, citrus fruits, nearly all animals, and the central nervous system. It is a neuroprotective therapeutic nutrient, marketed by Jazz Pharmaceuticals under the brand name Xyrem, but otherwise heavily regulated in the United States. GHB has been used medically to treat insomnia, depression, alcoholism, narcolepsy, and to enhance athletic performance. Historically, it has been used for general anesthesia.

Categorized as a central nervous system depressant, GHB is often used as an intoxicant. Bought and sold illegally on the streets as a date rape drug or recreational drug, GHB has many slang names:

• Juice
• Liquid Ecstasy or Liquid X
• Fantasy
• Georgia Homeboy
• Grievous Bodily Harm
• "G"

Upon recreational use, GHB is usually found in either a crystallized powder form (sodium or potassium salt) or as a clear GHB salt dissolved liquid. Typically, the substance is sold at 1 gram (powder) or 1 ml (liquid), and the average dosage of the user is 0.5-3.0 ml. It is taken orally, or injected and often, in a very dangerous practice, combined with alcohol. At low doses GHB produces euphoria, enhanced sensory experience, increased libido, and improved social skills. Effects last up to four hours. High doses however, could result in the following:

• Agitation
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness
• Visual disturbances
• Drowsiness
• Heavy, difficulty breathing
• Death 

With the rise of new club drugs in the 1990's, GHB, along with Ketamine and Ecstasy, hit the club or "rave" scene. Club drugs are used because of their sensory-enhancing qualities.

GHB is also sometimes used as a date rape drug because the liquid form is tasteless, and clear, and described as "easy to add to alcoholic drinks." Evidence for GHB as a date rape drug is however limited, because the sedated, or unconscious victim often does not remember until later what events took place.        

Bodybuilders and athletes have also been known to use GHB to stimulate human growth hormones as a weight loss tool or workout aid. 

Overdose on GHB dangerously affects multiple portions of the body. An individual who is overdosing on GHB may experience convulsions, vomiting, and unconsciousness simultaneously. Immediate medical attention should be sought. The various effects include:

• Heart failure
• Respiratory depression
• Twitching or convulsions (especially if complicated with stimulant use)
• Nausea and vomiting (especially when ingested with alcohol)
• Unconsciousness
• Death (occurring most often from the individual inhaling their own vomit)

Withdrawal from GHB use can be life-threatening, especially if the individual has abused GHB regularly (every 2-4 hours daily for consecutive weeks). The following withdrawal symptoms will decrease after 5-30 days, depending on the user's amount and length of abuse:

• Sleeplessness and restlessness
• Anxiety, tremors, and sweating
• Loss of appetite
• Chest pain and tightness
• Sensitivity to sound, light, and touch
• Mental dullness
• Dysphoria
• Muscle and bone aches
  

Since GHB is physically and psychologically addicting, treatment through a rehabilitation center or detoxification center should be sought.