Depressants are some of the most commonly misused substances in the world, and one type of depressant that more people are using is GBL. But what is GBL, and what are the signs of GBL addiction? You can get help for substance use disorders from Promises by calling 844.875.5609.
What Is GBL, and Why Is It So Dangerous?
GBL stands for gamma-butyrolactone. It’s an industrial chemical that you can find in paint removers, nail polish removers, and adhesives. When ingested, the body transforms it into GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyric acid), a Schedule I central nervous system depressant that has long been called a date rape drug.
Because your body can transform GBL into GHB, it offers the same sedative effects and the same sense of euphoria that GHB does, and it can do so even faster and for longer.
Some teens and young adults use GBL to enhance sexual experiences and as a substitute for alcohol.
The quick onset of effects and the euphoria it causes can quickly lead to the development of an addiction to GBL.
The signs and symptoms of GBL addiction include:
- Excessive sweating
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Tremors
- Lowered body temperature
- Increased sensitivity to sound and light
- Feelings of euphoria
- Memory problems
- Confusion
The long-term use of GBL can lead to cardiac arrhythmias and cognitive issues.
Treatment for GBL Addiction: How to Get the Right Help
If you have an addiction to GBL, getting help is essential—and that starts with detox services.
When you develop an addiction to any substance, your body starts to make adjustments in the way it functions and the chemicals it produces so that you can go about your life as normally as possible. If you suddenly stop using the substance, your body doesn’t remember how to function without it. That leads to withdrawal symptoms that can vary in severity.
GBL withdrawal symptoms include:
- Increased heart rate
- Excessive sweating
- Agitation
- Mood swings
- Severe cravings
- Increased blood pressure
- Delirium
To avoid these symptoms, you need to turn to medical detox services for help. During medical detox, you receive the 24/7 care you need to stabilize. The medications can also prevent the kind of cravings that can make a relapse more likely.
Once you complete medical detox, you can choose between residential treatment or outpatient treatment.
We usually recommend residential treatment for GBL addiction, especially for people who are just starting their recovery. This intense level of care lets you step away from your daily life so you can focus on recovery without your everyday stressors. It involves hours of individual and group therapy sessions every day, as well as family therapy and so much more.
PHP and IOP Treatment Options
If you can’t enter residential care or you’d prefer to be able to return home each evening, we offer partial hospitalization programs. These programs still offer a high level of care, but they don’t require you to stay at our facilities overnight.
The next level is intensive outpatient programs. These are a step down from PHPs, helping you start gaining more confidence in your recovery. You have access to hours of individual and group therapy sessions as well as guidance in relapse prevention and other transitional tools.
We also offer standard outpatient services with a varied number of treatment hours. This option allows for even greater flexibility while still creating a supportive foundation for recovery.
Turn to Promises for Help With GBL Addiction
If you struggle with an addiction to GBL, you don’t have to go through this on your own. Promises offers reliable treatment options that can help you break free from addiction.
You can contact Promises today by calling 844.875.5609 to get started on the path to sobriety.