Epidemiology of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) use and misuse and characteristics of GHB-dependent inpatients

Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) has been used as a recreational drug in the nightlife setting since the 1990s in many Western countries. Problematic GHB use and addiction has been observed in certain countries recently. In this chapter, the epidemiology of GHB addiction is described as well as characteristics of recreational GHB use as GHB-dependent clients. GHB often is combined with other substances of abuse and problematic groups more often use at home or at nonsocial settings. GHB-dependent clients are older than recreational users and have achieved a lower level of education. They show a high unemployment rate and co-use of stimulants, which is associated with higher dependence severity. They also show a high co-morbidity with psychiatric mood disorders. In summary, GHB seems to be used by users of lower social economic status, in comparison with other typical nightlife drugs. This should be taken into account in prevention and addiction care.