GHB / GBL

GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate)

Street names: G, Liquid ecstasy, Grievous Bodily Harm, Scoop

Overdose? Act now. Call emergency services — say "unresponsive, not breathing". Give naloxone for opioid-like signs. Hotlines

⚡What it does

Dose curve is razor-thin — 1 mL too much = coma
Frequent dosing needed (90-min half-life) → dependence and brutal 24/7 withdrawal
Also linked to drug-facilitated assault

Also known asG, Liquid ecstasy, Grievous Bodily Harm, Scoop

CategoryGHB / GBL

Schedule / classSchedule I/III (US — illicit GHB is I; approved drug Xyrem is III)

AppearanceClear, salty/soapy-tasting liquid; white powder; clear capsules

Street price~$5–$20 per dose (capful); ~$60–$150 per 100 mL where found

Legal statusSchedule I (illicit) US; Class B/C elsewhere — illegal without Rx everywhere listed

Last updated2026-09-12

Sources: NIDA, EMCDDA, TripSit

Substance	Class	Top risks	Street price
GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate)	Schedule I/III	Dose curve is razor-thin — 1 mL too much = coma; Frequent dosing needed (90-min half-life) → dependence and brutal 24/7 withdrawal	~$5–$20 per dose
GBL (gamma-butyrolactone)	Schedule I	Stronger and faster than GHB; dosing even more unforgiving; Caustic — burns mouth/esophagus undiluted	~$50–$150 per liter

Street prices are regional estimates. Potency and cuts vary constantly.

What does GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate) look like?

Clear, salty/soapy-tasting liquid; white powder; clear capsules

What are the signs of a GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate) overdose?

Sudden deep sleep/unrousable; Vomiting while unconscious; Slow irregular breathing Call emergency services immediately.

How addictive is it?

Dose curve is razor-thin — 1 mL too much = coma Withdrawal can be life-threatening — medical tapering is essential.

Facts on this page are compiled from these primary sources. External links open in a new tab.