Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate, Serum/Plasma

Clinical Utility

Gamma Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is a central nervous system depressant, which was first synthesized in the 1960’s as an anesthetic drug. It was marketed in health food stores as an anabolic steroid alternative in the 1980’s as it was thought to act as a “fat burner” and growth hormone promoter. It is now seen in the “Rave” nightclub scene, where it is used with criminal intent as a “date rape” drug or knock out drops. GHB comes either as a powder or liquid and can be easily bought on the streets by many names including: Grievous Bodily Harm, Scoop, Liquid Ecstacy or Cherry Meth. GHB is a relatively fast acting depressant. Within about 15 minutes of administration, drowsiness, dizziness, euphoria, nausea, visual disturbances and unconsciousness may ensue. The duration of action is about 3 hours. Peak urine GHB concentrations are observed within about 4 hours after an oral dose, but the drug is undetectable in urine by 12 hours.

Method

Gas chromatrography-flame ionization detection (GC-FID)

Result Included

Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB)

Aliases/Synonyms

GHB; Scoop; Liquid Ecstacy

Turnaround Time

2 days

Results

Referral Location

Canada

Last Updated

2019-11-19