GHB and date rape

I read with interest the important editorial by Rodgers et al (2004) on γ -hydroxybutyrate (GHB, liquid ecstasy) and the new threat it poses to young adults. It is worth adding the growing threat of the use of GHB as a ‘date/acquaintance rape’ drug; GHB is cited in this regard along with psychoactive substances such as flunitrazepam and ketamine (Smith, 1999).

GHB is a typical ‘date rape’ agent (O'Connell et al, 2000) as it is relatively easy to obtain, and it causes a rapid relaxing and disinhibitory effect. Moreover, since it is colourless and odour-free, it is easily added to the potential victim's drink without arousing any suspicion. These characteristics make it easy and less risky to perpetrate the crime. Additionally, GHB frequently causes the victim to be regarded as unreliable in the eyes of law-enforcement authorities because of changes in consciousness, perception, and antero-grade amnesia, and at times hallucinations during and following the act.

Since GHB is difficult to identify in the urine as it is quickly eliminated from the body, it is rarely collected as evidence of the crime. This drug is not routinely checked for in urine toxicology screening kits and is therefore likely to be missed at the emergency room. Doctors and other professionals working with sexual assault victims should be aware of the possibility of GHB intoxication, more often than not, of an unknowing victim.