Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about addiction treatment.
Get Help for GHB Addiction
Overview
GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate) is a central nervous system depressant that occurs naturally in the brain in small amounts. In its synthetic form, it is used illicitly for its euphoric and sedative effects and has been associated with sexual assault due to its ability to incapacitate. GHB is a Schedule I controlled substance (Schedule III when in the FDA-approved formulation Xyrem for narcolepsy).
GHB is highly addictive with regular use, and withdrawal can be severe and medically dangerous — similar to alcohol and benzodiazepine withdrawal, including risk of seizures, delirium, and autonomic instability. GHB withdrawal requires medical supervision and often hospitalization.
Treatment
Treatment involves medically supervised detox (sometimes using benzodiazepines or barbiturates), behavioral therapy, and treatment of co-occurring conditions.
Related Resources
FindAddictionTreatments.com provides informational content and referral services. We are not a treatment facility. Individual treatment outcomes vary. No specific results are guaranteed.
National Resources: SAMHSA National Helpline | 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 | SAMHSA Treatment Locator: findtreatment.gov