Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) is a powerful sedative that can have dangerous effects when combined with alcohol. When abused together, the side effects of GHB and alcohol abuse can be significantly worse than either substance alone. Call 1.844.768.0169 to speak with someone from The Right Step Houston about polysubstance abuse, GHB, and alcohol side effects, and how substance abuse treatment can help if you or someone you care about has a polysubstance abuse problem.
What Is Polysubstance Abuse?
Polysubstance abuse occurs when someone abuses two or more drugs simultaneously to enhance each drug’s effects. This type of behavior can be hazardous because it increases the likelihood that a person will develop an addiction or experience severe side effects from their drug use. In addition, it also increases the risk of overdose.
The most common cases of polysubstance abuse involve mixing alcohol with prescription drugs or illegal substances like heroin or cocaine. However, many people are abusing substances like GHB mixed with alcohol. It’s even led to the reputation of GHB as a date rape drug because some add GHB to unsuspecting people’s alcoholic drinks—making them more vulnerable to sexual assault or robbery.
What Are the Side Effects of GHB and Alcohol Abuse?
GHB causes extreme drowsiness and sedation when taken on its own. Combined with alcohol, these symptoms become even more pronounced due to their similar chemical structures. Some people may experience nausea or vomiting, difficulty breathing, and impaired coordination after taking GHB and drinking alcohol together. Additionally, users may experience blackouts that last several hours and confusion about what happened during their blackout period.
Combining GHB with alcohol can increase your risk of overdosing on both substances due to their synergistic effect on each other in your body’s system. An overdose can cause a coma-like state where you cannot breathe properly or respond to stimuli around you. This situation could result in death if not treated quickly enough by medical professionals. Additionally, users who combine these two substances also put themselves at higher risk for developing an addiction due to their ability to quickly create a strong physical dependence on them in just a few uses.
The dangers of GHB and alcohol abuse, when combined, make it vital to seek professional help if you or someone you care about has a polysubstance abuse problem like this. You should also seek help if you think you or a loved one unknowingly consumed an alcoholic beverage with GHB.
What to Expect from Substance Abuse Treatment
Substance abuse treatment is designed to help individuals suffering from addiction learn healthier coping mechanisms, so they don’t feel compelled to turn back to drug use when faced with difficult situations in life. Substance abuse treatment programs typically consist of the following:
- Detoxification
- Rehabilitation
- Outpatient and aftercare services
The Right Step Houston offers comprehensive drug addiction treatment programs that include all the above components. Our licensed clinicians and medical professionals will work closely with you or your loved one to provide care tailored to their unique situation.
During treatment, you will work one-on-one with therapists who understand your unique situation and tailor therapy sessions accordingly. Hence, you get the maximum benefit from them while working towards recovery from addiction. Your therapist will also provide support throughout the rehabilitation process, so you never feel alone during this challenging time.
Find Substance Abuse Treatment in Texas at The Right Step Houston
Combining GHB with alcohol can have serious consequences. If you or someone you know is struggling with abuse or addiction problems involving these two substances, do not hesitate to reach out for help. Contact The Right Step Houston today at 1.844.768.0169 or fill out our online form to learn more about our substance abuse treatment programs.