In the United States, it is classified as an illicit club drug, by the National Institute on Drug Abuse. The primary concern is GHB's use as a date rape substance, due to its colorless and odorless appearance, and the ease of use on victims who are sedated prior to sexual assault (Drasbek, Christensen, & Jensen, 2006).

GHB was introduced in the United States' over-the-counter market in the spring of 1990.

It was introduced as a dietary supplement, as well as a sedative and for body-building effect (Maxwell, 2005).

This introduction was rapidly followed by reports of severe adverse effects at doses ranging from approximately 1 teaspoon to 4 tablespoons. Right away, there were widespread reports of poisonings.

In November 1990, this led to a U.S. Food and Drug Administration ban on the distribution of GHB for human use, outside approved clinical trials.

Adverse effects reported included: vomiting, nausea, dizziness, weaknesses,...
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