GHB was originally marketed in health food stores to body builders and as a diet and sleeping aid. Its central nervous system activity, that of a depressant and numerous complaints of symptoms ranging from nausea to coma were recognized . The effects are dose and time related. Gamma hydroxybutyrate and other drugs in this category have been detected in persons admitted to area hospitals for unusual behavior or coma induced states. Numerous cases are cited in the recent literature of abuse by purposeful ingestion of the compound either in liquid form, mixed or consumed as a powder.
Problems exist in documenting the presence of date rape drugs in the body.
First of all these drugs are not included in the routine drug screen panel. The scene of injury or death must be investigated thoroughly because GHB in particular has been found in spring water bottles, ice tea and even mouthwash. Both GHB and Rohypnol used to be white powder or tablet form. Now manufactures of Rohypnol include a blue dye, at least in this country. Laboratory analysis is critical in documenting the presence of GHB since we know that it also occurs naturally.