Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is a depressant that affects the central nervous system. It was first created in the 1920s and was in development as an anesthetic agent in the 1960s. GHB is produced naturally in the human body in very small quantities, but its purpose or function is unclear. The drug has entered the scene recently as a club drug at dance parties and late-night raves. GHB causes an intense, euphoric effect and sometimes even causes hallucinations. GHB has caused many young people to require emergency medical treatment. Because the liquid is odorless and colorless, GHB diluted in drinks is virtually undetectable and sometimes gets unknowingly slipped into someone else's drinks. This is why the drug received the nickname "date rape drug," because would-be rapists would put the drug in an unsuspecting victim's drink and then take advantage of their compromised state. Surprisingly, some people actually take this drug specifically for the euphoric it produces. This practice is also extremely dangerous because in addition to the side effects, the drug can be addictive. This means that the longer you use it, you will have to use more and more to reach the same level of "high" and if you stop taking it, you will experience withdrawal. The drug is sometimes used in combination with other party drugs, such as Ecstasy and alcohol, which increase its risks and can be lethal. GHB is often produced illegally in home laboratories, usually as an odorless or colored liquid. It is known as a synthetic drug because it was created specifically for the purpose of getting people high. GHB has many unpleasant side effects. These include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and vision changes. People who...... middle of paper ......a house boy, grievous bodily harm), so that they can give users a clue as to what the substance actually is. GHB is a deadly and addictive street drug. While there are cases of abuse every day, there are also stories of great sadness, with young lives ending tragically due to the abuse of this powerful drug. Adolescents and young adults often think that no harm will come to them. When you start taking drugs like GHB and mixing them with alcohol and other street drugs, the effects can be catastrophic. The more you lose your inhibitions, the more drug you take until something tragic happens. Obviously, this is why these types of drugs are illegal. But being illegal is not enough. Adolescents need to know that these drugs are available and commit to making the right choices before their awareness is compromised. Knowledge is power, especially in cases like these.