Gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL) is a chemical that has depressant effects on the central nervous system, and more people are becoming dependent on and addicted to it. At our drug addiction treatment centers, we offer help for GBL addiction.
Call Promises today at 844.875.5609 to learn more about GBL and how it can impact your physical and mental well-being.
What Is GBL? Why This Substance Is So Dangerous
GBL is an anesthetic that converts into Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) when it enters the body. These substances are both depressants that cause mild “highs” when taken in small doses and sedative effects when taken in larger doses. GBL can cause euphoria while at the same time lowering inhibitions and increasing libido.
After taking a small dose of GBL, you will likely feel an immediate sense of relaxation. In higher doses, however, the effects can include:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Confusion
GBL can also cause very serious long-term effects, such as:
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Mood disturbances
- Bouts of amnesia
- Damage to the teeth
- Convulsions and seizures
Some people also experience liver problems that can lead to death.
Signs of GBL Addiction: Do You Have a Substance Use Disorder?
Like any other addiction, developing a GBL use disorder begins slowly, and the changes can be subtle. You may notice that you crave the substance but are still able to manage your day—until you aren’t.
The most common signs of GBL addiction are:
- Slurred speech
- Powerful cravings
- Lying about GBL use
- Loss of muscle control
- Lowered body temperature
- Tremors
- Excessive sweating
- Sensitivity to sound and light
- Memory problems
- Depression
It can sometimes be difficult to recognize GBL abuse in others because the signs of it are similar to that of alcohol. So watch for symptoms that are not the same, like lowered body temperature and loss of muscle control.
Treatment Options for GBL Addiction: Knowing Where to Start
Getting help is essential when struggling with an addiction to GBL. The first thing you need to do is turn to a medical detox program that can help you remove all traces of the chemical from your body without experiencing the worst of the withdrawal symptoms.
These can be:
- Agitation
- Irritability
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Hypertension
- Psychosis
- Delirium
- Increased heart rate
When you get help from medical professionals, you can stabilize safely at a facility.
Residential vs. Outpatient Treatment
You then need to decide between residential treatment and outpatient services. Residential treatment is an option that is well-suited for people who are struggling to stay sober or for those who are just beginning treatment.
Residential treatment means leaving your regular environment and staying at our facilities. While there, you have 24/7 care and access to individual and group therapy options.
If you can’t participate in residential treatment because you have home or work responsibilities you can’t set aside, we also offer outpatient programs. Our partial hospitalization program is one step down from residential care. You receive many hours of therapy sessions but are able to return home each night.
With fewer hours, our intensive-outpatient program offers more freedom. It also gives you a chance to put into practice the coping skills you’ve learned during your therapy sessions.
Standard outpatient services can help you start transitioning between structured care and everyday life. You still have the support you need from specialists but spend fewer hours in treatment each day.
Experiencing Signs of GBL Addiction? Let Us Help You at Promises
A GBL addiction can be a serious concern with lasting physical and mental health consequences. At Promises, we offer the care you can depend on—no matter where you are in your recovery process. With medical detox as well as residential and outpatient services, we can provide the help you deserve.
Get started by calling Promises at 844.875.5609.