Last Updated:

January 30th, 2026

GHB addiction: Signs, symptoms and side-effects

GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate) is known on the club scene as liquid ecstasy. Still, despite this harmless-sounding nickname, GHB is a powerful depressant that slows the brain and body to dangerous levels. In 2023, there were 51 deaths involving GHB and its analogue GBL, the highest number since records began. People use GHB to chill out, for chemsex, and most tragically, in drug-facilitated sexual assaults. If you are being affected by GHB addiction, recovery is possible, and this begins with understanding exactly what addiction is and how drug rehab can help.

GHB addiction lequid

Defining GHB addiction

GHB addiction means using GHB even when you know it’s hurting you. People who don’t understand drug addiction often think that it is down to poor choices or weakness. But GHB addiction is a medical condition where the drug’s grip over thoughts and behaviours becomes stronger than logic or fear of the consequences.

GHB addiction statistics show that treatment for sedative addiction, including GHB, has risen across England since 2019, and there has been a sharp increase in GHB and GBL-related admissions since the late 2010s. While these admissions have mostly been people using the drugs to party or in chemsex, GHB addiction does not discriminate, and anybody who uses the drug is at risk.

The stages of GHB addiction

Addiction to GHB tends to build in steps rather than all at once. Understanding these stages can help you recognise what is happening so you can nip a growing problem in the bud:

GHB abuse
GHB abuse usually starts at parties, clubs, or for a boost during sex. A bit of GHB can make you feel relaxed, friendly and warm inside, but the effects fade quickly, so regular “top-ups” are needed to keep the feeling going. Many users also drink alcohol or take other drugs at the same time as GHB, which makes the effects stronger and less predictable.

Eventually, GHB doses need to become larger because of tolerance, and many people lose track of how much they are taking. Early risks of GHB abuse include blacking out, experiencing memory gaps, and beginning to make risky choices when under the influence.

GHB dependence
GHB dependence is when the body adapts and now expects regular doses. Your sleep can start to depend on whether you have taken GHB, you may need it first thing in the morning to hold off withdrawal symptoms, and may start dosing through the night or carrying small bottles to work or on nights out.
GHB addiction
GHB dependence occurs when the body adapts and now expects regular doses. Your sleep can start to depend on whether you have taken GHB. You may need it first thing in the morning to hold off withdrawal symptoms, and may start dosing through the night or carrying small bottles to work or on nights out. .

How to spot GHB addiction signs

GHB addiction doesn’t always look dramatic from the outside, and many people are blinded by addiction denial. But deep down, if you sense something’s not right, here are some GHB addiction signs that mean it’s time to reach out for help:

  • You feel anxious, shaky, or unwell if you haven’t used GHB for a few hours.
  • You keep GHB with you constantly or plan your day around dosing.
  • You have blacked out or can’t remember parts of the night.
  • You lie about your GHB use or hide it from those close to you.
  • Sleep has become impossible without GHB.
  • Your mood swings sharply between euphoria and low energy.
  • You have mixed GHB with alcohol or other drugs, even though you know it’s risky.
  • You have tried to stop GHB misuse, but couldn’t manage the withdrawals.

Why is GHB addictive?

GHB affects the brain’s natural balance of calm and stimulation, as it floods your system with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the chemical that slows nerve activity and helps you relax. Eventually, the brain cuts back its own supply, so you start needing GHB to sleep, socialise, or think clearly. As well as these inherent drug effects, for GHB addiction to take hold, there is usually a mixture of issues going on:

GHB overdose
The difference between a “safe” GHB dose and a fatal one is tiny, and taking too much or combining with alcohol or depressants can stop breathing or put you into a fatal coma. Some people also choke on their vomit while asleep, which can lead to death.
Other short-term GHB side-effects
GHB misuse can cause dizziness, nausea, slurred speech, confusion, vomiting, blackouts, memory loss, and sudden unconsciousness. Some of these effects are what have tragically made GHB a notorious date-rape drug.
Long-term dangers
Long-term GHB abuse affects memory, concentration, heart rhythm, and coordination. GHB addiction and mental health issues are common, with many users experiencing severe anxiety or depression, even after stopping. Hormonal changes can also lead to constant fatigue and sexual problems, while effects on your memory or thinking may linger for months.

GHB pill on hand

Finding help for GHB addiction

Recovery starts with GHB detox, where doctors usually taper GHB gradually to prevent dangerous withdrawal symptoms like seizures and hallucinations. An experienced detox team should also monitor breathing, hydration, and heart rate while possibly giving medication to ease panic and insomnia.

GHB rehab is then a structured programme of therapies that helps rebuild calm and trust after the chaos of addiction. Different rehab programmes offer various therapies, but the goal of rehab should always be to untangle the reasons you became addicted to GHB and learn how to face stress and emotions without using.

Ongoing treatment and support depend on what your rehab centre provides and your personal needs. It may include regular outpatient therapy, local support like NA meetings, GHB relapse prevention before you leave rehab, and alumni events and resources.

If GHB addiction is affecting you, reaching out for help is always where recovery begins. Recovery.org is here to listen to your story, help you find the right treatment, or give you advice on staging an intervention for a loved one. Contact us today, and we can discuss all the options available to you to help change your life for the better.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a GHB overdose be fatal?
Yes, taking too much GHB can stop your breathing and cause unconsciousness or even death, especially if you’ve also been drinking or taken other sedatives. A GHB overdose is a real medical emergency, so call 999 straight away if you are worried about yourself or someone else.
Is GHB illegal in the UK?
Yes, GHB is classed as a Class B drug in the UK, which means it is illegal to make, supply, or possess. The law changed in 2022 to make the penalties tougher because of how dangerous it can be.
Is GHB the same as GBL?
No, but they are very close because GBL turns into GHB once it’s in your body. Both are Class B drugs in the UK and carry the same legal penalties, addiction dangers and health risks.

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