Management of γ-hydroxybutyrate intoxication and withdrawal

γ-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) induces euphoria and relaxation Also known as liquid ecstasy or "G," GHB and its analogues (e.g., γ-butyrolactone) are GHB- and γ-aminobutyric acid-B (GABAB) receptor agonists within the central nervous system. Synthetic GHB is a tasteless, colorless liquid used for purported anabolic effects, increasing relaxation and euphoria, enhancing sexual experiences or as an agent in drug-facilitated sexual assaults. It is detectable in urine for 5-12 hours after ingestion, but is not included on standard toxicology screens. Confirmatory testing with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry requires consultation with provincial toxicology laboratories.