Definition

1. Noun:
   • A central nervous system depressant and psychoactive drug: Gamma hydroxybutyrate is a synthetic substance that affects the brain and nervous system, producing sedative and euphoric effects. It is known for its use as a recreational or "club" drug.
   • A substance used in drug-facilitated crimes: Due to its potent sedative properties, it has been infamously used to incapacitate individuals, making them vulnerable to crimes such as sexual assault.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The hospital confirmed the presence of gamma hydroxybutyrate in the victim's system.
  • Authorities warned partygoers about the dangers of drinks being spiked with gamma hydroxybutyrate.

Advanced Usage

• "GHB": This is the common acronym and street name for gamma hydroxybutyrate.
  • GHB is sometimes referred to as a "date rape drug."

Variants and Related Words

• Sodium oxybate (n): This is the pharmaceutical name for a medication containing gamma hydroxybutyrate, used under strict control to treat narcolepsy.
  • Sodium oxybate is a tightly regulated prescription drug.

Synonyms

• GHB: The standard abbreviation.
• Liquid ecstasy: A common street name, though chemically unrelated to MDMA (ecstasy).
• Fantasy: Another street name for the drug.

Notes on Meaning

It is critical to distinguish between the illicit, dangerous use of gamma hydroxybutyrate as a recreational drug and its highly controlled, legitimate medical application as sodium oxybate for treating a specific sleep disorder. The word typically carries strong negative connotations due to its association with substance abuse and criminal activity.

Noun

1. a club drug available in liquid or powder form is taken orally (frequently combined with alcohol); used to incapacitate individuals for the commission of sexual assault and rape