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Overdoses of GHB, a drug often used in alcoholic beverages, are on the rise in Wellington.
Overdoses of the drug GHB for date rape are on the rise in Wellington, says an emergency department doctor.
The use of the chemical GHB, commonly called liquid ecstasy, rinse or fantasy, was leading more people to the emergency department, said Dr. Paul Quigley.
The drug, which is a central nervous system depressant, is so powerful that even a small increase in dosage can lead to unconsciousness and death.
“These cases are often a medical emergency with the patient deeply unconscious, potentially not breathing and requiring life support,” he said.
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“When patients wake up, they are often uncooperative and many leave without seeking help or support. They are exposed to extreme danger and use important emergency resources in the name of recreation. “
Use of the drug had been declining since 2006, although it was still used intermittently in the Auckland region, he said.
The drug, which can also be used as a drain cleaner, is highly addictive and users can develop a tolerance and dependence on it.
It fell in popularity due to its use in drug-facilitated sexual assaults, particularly man-on-man date rape, and had been used to increase drinking.
The drug withdrawals were also very dangerous and required specialized management, he added.
“GHB / GBL and 1,4 Butanedioll are very dangerous recreational substances that we highly recommend avoiding.”
Those who use the drug would always be at risk of inadvertent overdose, said Dr. Adam Pomerleau, director of the National Poisons Center.
