Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB)
Gamma-hydroxybutyrate, better known as GHB, is used medicinally for the treatment of narcolepsy, though it also has a dark side. GHB is classified as an illicit drug in many countries and is otherwise strictly regulated in the United States, Canada, most European countries, New Zealand, and Australia.
What is Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate?
GHB is a naturally occurring substance found in the central nervous system of most mammals, but it is also found in alcoholic beverages and some citrus fruits in small amounts. It has been used for medical purposes as a general anesthetic, but also illicitly used as a date rape drug. Although it has been abused, there are still medically valid reasons for the continued use of gamma-hydroxybutyrate.
Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate Benefits
When used for medicinal purposes, GHB can be helpful to those suffering from certain conditions or disorders. Though it may have an ill reputation from abuse, your doctor may well prescribe gamma-hydroxybutyrate for its useful effects that include:
- Relief from daytime sleepiness in those persons with narcolepsy.
- Treating cataplexy, a condition that affects the facial muscles. Most of those affected suffer from narcolepsy.
- Treatment of insomnia.
- Helping those that suffer from clinical depression.
- Aiding those affected by alcoholism by blocking the craving for alcohol.
Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate Side Effects
When used as recommended by your doctor for the legitimate treatment of illness, GHB is thought to be relatively safe. Serious side effects including unconsciousness and memory loss occur when GHB is abused, and it should never be combined with alcohol. Some athletes use GHB for its purported relation in increasing the amount of growth hormone in the body, though this is not its intended purpose and can lead to a dangerous addiction, and even death.
How Does Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate Help Brain Function?
There is little information to support that GHB has any kind of positive effect on brain function and in fact, may even cause a decrease in learning and memory skills with chronic use. Unless prescribed by your doctor for the treatment of a legitimate illness or disorder, GHB should be avoided.
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