Overdosing can lead to extreme paranoia and violent hostility. Swallowed in a drink or taken as a pill, MDMA is touted for its aphrodisiac effects and feelings of euphoria. Long-term use can lead to decreased levels of serotonin, ataxia, sweating, and blurred vision. Club clothes a tip-off San Francisco also has seen a rise in GHB cases over the last five years, said Karl Sporer, MD, associate clinical professor at San Francisco General Hospital. Originally marketed as a muscle builder, GHB has proven to be a powerful depressant.
Users swallow a few tablespoons of the salty solution or down it like a shot of alcohol.
The effect usually lasts three hours with little or no hangover effect. But those who take too much can fall into a coma with extremely shallow breathing patterns. In cases where GHB use is certain, healthcare workers should observe the patient closely and monitor breathing, Sporer said. Many times the only tip-off to illicit drug use is the testimony of the patients themselves, which can be sketchy or unreliable. Furthermore, patients often are hesitant to report illicit drug use.