Food color is added by some, however, it serves no purpose other than to attract the young customer. The drug is generally ingested orally after being mixed in a liquid. The onset of action is rapid and in an overdose, unconsciousness can occur after 15 minutes and coma within 30 to 40 minutes. GHB produces dose-dependent drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, amnesia, visual hallucinations, reduced blood pressure, decreased heart rate, hypnotic effects resembling petit mal epilepsy, convulsions, severe respiratory depression, coma and death. Overdose frequently requires emergency room care, including intensive care for respiratory depression and coma.
Most individuals regain consciousness within two to four hours.