Also known as fantasy, liquid ecstasy, liquid E, liquid X, Gina or G, juice, blue nitro, fishies, Home Boy, grievous bodily harm, soap-e
Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is a depressant drug. It usually comes as a clear or blue liquid packaged in small bottles or vials, some shaped like a fish (such as those used for containing soy sauce). It may be in crystal or powder form.
GHB is usually swallowed and sometimes injected. An illicit drug, some people use it in dance and club environments for its elevated effects. It is known as a “date rape” drug as it has been used to spike drinks in sexual assault cases. The drug has sedative and anaesthetic effects, and no smell.
Effects of GHB
Effects depend on the person (age, weight, size, health and tolerance), as well as the strength, the amount taken, and if taken with other drugs, including alcohol. Once swallowed, effects are felt within 15 to 30 minutes and last for about 3 to 6 hours. The difference between a safe dose and overdose is small, making it very easy to overdose on this drug.
Short-term effects, both desired and undesired, may include…
There is not much known as yet about the long-term effects of taking this drug.
Long-term effects may include…
Effects from overdosing: confusion, agitation, heavy sweating, vomiting, irregular or shallow breathing, muscle spasms, hallucinations, blackouts, unconsciousness, death.
If a person is experiencing an overdose or is unresponsive call 000 for an ambulance. If unconscious, put them in the recovery position. If not breathing, start CPR. Paramedics won’t involve police unless the person is a danger to themselves or others.
How long does GHB stay in your system?
Depends on use and person. It can be detected in urine up to 12 hours and in blood up to four hours and in hair up to one month.
There is no safe way to use GHB. There will always be a health risk. Overdoses on GHB are relatively common as it can be hard to dose safely due to different potency between batches. Injecting GHB increases the risk of overdose. The only way to be safe is not to use. If you choose to use, the following will help reduce risk:
Before: take a friend and tell them what you plan on using, plan how to get home (to avoid driving under the influence). Injecting is not recommended, though if choosing to inject, get your own clean, sharp syringe and find a clean location.
During: go slow, start with a low dose then wait at least two hours to see effects before having a bit more, second dose will be more potent than first due to stacking, measure doses with an oral syringe, know and keep to your limits. Safely dispose of syringes.
Avoid: using GHB with other drugs, especially other depressant drugs such as opiates or alcohol, using too much or too often, needle sharing. While using don’t be alone – be with someone you trust, don’t do risky activities or be responsible for the care of others.
It may be a problem if you agree with any of these statements:
It is illegal to use, possess, make or sell GHB in Australia. In Queensland, it is illegal to possess needles or syringes if they are not disposed of safely and therefore pose a risk to others.
Call Drug ARM Central Intake on 07 3620 8880 during business hours to access free support. For general inquiries, call 1300 656 800 or email .
In an emergency, call an ambulance: 000
Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
Family Drug Support: 1300 368 186
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
Alcohol & Drug Information Service: 1800 177 833
We bring compassionate people together to change lives.
| 01 | Case Worker - Rockhampton |
| 02 | Case Worker - Maryborough |
| 03 | Clinical Worker - Moranbah |
Your go-to-source of information on the alcohol and other drugs’ stories that are making the news. Get commentary from our experts, stories of hope and transformation, and ways to get involved.
If you have any enquiries, feedback or suggestions regarding our services and support, we'd love to hear from you.
Online EnquiryGeneral Enquiries
1300 656 800
Intake Service
(07) 3620 8880
