Gina Drug is the street name for a Schedule I substance called GHB (gamma hydroxybutyrate). This drug is particularly dangerous when mixed with alcohol or other drugs, and it’s used at parties and clubs. Even though Gina can have seemingly euphoric effects, it has a sinister side with many physical and psychological side effects.
Gina or GHB (gamma hydroxybutyrate) is often used at parties or nightclubs.
Here’s what you need to know about Gina Drug, the implications of combining it with alcohol or other drugs, potential treatment options for addiction, and the importance of social support in recovery.
What Is Gina Drug?
Gina Drug (GHB) is a central nervous system depressant that produces euphoric and sedative effects. GHB is naturally produced in small amounts in the human body, where it functions as a neurotransmitter.
When it’s consumed in large quantities, however, it can produce effects similar to alcohol, including:
- Relaxation
- Euphoria
- Lowered inhibitions
Gina is generally taken orally, such as being mixed with a drink. Relaxation, euphoria, increased sociability, and enhanced sexual desire can be felt within 15 to 30 minutes of ingestion and last up to several hours.
Gina’s dark side is its connection with drug-facilitated sexual assault, or “date rape.” This is because Gina can cause memory loss and incapacitation in higher doses, making the user vulnerable to exploitation. The drug is also highly addictive, creating a cycle of dependence and withdrawal.
Gina is illegal, and it’s classified as a Schedule I drug in the U.S. because it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use.
Why is GHB called “Gina Drug?”
The name “Gina Drug” is believed to have emerged from cases where the substance was surreptitiously added to the drinks of unsuspecting individuals, leading to its association with incidents of drug-facilitated sexual assault.
This association has led to the term “Gina Drug” being used as a cautionary warning regarding the potential dangers of surreptitious drug administration in social environments.
How Long Does Gina Drug Stay in Your System?
Gina Drug, also known as the generic drug name, sodium oxybate, is typically detectable in the urine for up to 12 hours. This timeframe can vary depending on several factors, including the person’s metabolism, the dosage and frequency of use, and the type of drug test being administered.
It’s important to note that the information provided is a general guideline, and specific detection times can vary from person to person.
Health Effects of Gina Drug
Gina Drug use causes both physical and psychological effects. There are also significant health risks of an overdose.
Physical Effects
When you take Gina Drug, the initial physical effects can be felt within minutes.
These might include:
- Bradycardia (a slow heart rate)
- Elevated blood pressure
- Non-reactive pupils
- Intense feeling of euphoria
- Dizziness
- Increased sweating
- Appetite loss
However, as the drug starts to wear off, you might experience a “crash.” This can include feelings of fatigue, anxiety, and depression. Physical discomfort, including headaches and muscle aches, is also common during this time.
Long-term use can lead to severe side effects such as:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Liver damage
- Respiratory problems
Psychological Effects
On the psychological front, Gina Drug might initially make you feel euphoric, confident, sociable, alert, energetic, and mentally sharp. But these positive effects are often short-lived and can quickly give way to less desirable feelings.
As the drug wears off, you might start to feel anxious, paranoid, and agitated. It’s common to experience mood swings, and some people may even have hallucinations or delusions. Because these psychological effects can be so distressing, they can increase the risk of harm to yourself or others.
Risk of Overdose
One of the most significant risks associated with Gina use is the potential for overdose. An overdose of Gina Drug can cause:
- Vomiting
- Slow, shallow breathing
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
- Death
Mixing Gina Drug with Other Substances
Mixing Gina Drug with alcohol or other drugs can lead to severe health consequences. Both alcohol and Gina are depressants. When you combine them, they can depress your system, leading to unconsciousness, respiratory failure, or even death.
Mixing Gina with stimulants like cocaine can create a dangerous cocktail because the stimulant can mask the sedative effects of Gina, leading to an overdose without the user being aware.
The Effects of Taking Gina Drug During Pregnancy
Taking Gina Drug during pregnancy can have serious consequences for both you and your unborn child. The drug can cross the placenta, meaning that it can directly affect your baby and cause premature birth, low birth weight, and developmental problems.
If you use Gina Drug regularly during pregnancy, your baby could be also born dependent on the drug.
This can cause a range of withdrawal symptoms, including:
- Irritability
- Feeding difficulties
- Respiratory problems
These symptoms can be severe and may require specialist medical care.
Lastly, using Gina Drug during pregnancy can also increase the risk of other complications, including miscarriage, stillbirth, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Best Treatment Options for Gina Drug Addiction
Gina Drug is highly addictive. Regular use can lead to dependence, where you need to use the drug just to feel normal. This can make it incredibly difficult to stop using, even if you want to.
Withdrawal symptoms are similar to those of alcohol but more noticeable on the first day and can persist for more than two weeks. The early onset of GHB withdrawal symptoms are tremors, confusion, and nausea.
Other symptoms can be severe, including:
- Physical discomfort
- Hallucinations
- Delirium
- Restlessness
- Intense cravings for the drug
- Seizures, in rare cases
It’s important to note that these symptoms can be life-threatening, which is why medical supervision is essential during the withdrawal process.
If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to Gina Drug, know that help is available. There are various treatment options to consider, depending on your needs.
- Detoxification: Detox can take place in a hospital or a specialized detox center, providing a safe and supportive environment for those in recovery. During this process, medication may be used to alleviate withdrawal symptoms, making the process more comfortable. For example, benzodiazepines can help alleviate anxiety and prevent seizures.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is a cornerstone of treatment for Gina Drug addiction. Through CBT, individuals can learn to identify triggers, develop healthier responses, and ultimately, lead a drug-free life.
- Group therapy: Group therapyprovides a safe space for individuals to share their experiences, learn from others, and receive emotional support.
- Support groups: Support groups provide a way for people to share their experiences, challenges, and achievements with others who are in a similar situation.
If you or someone you know is struggling with Gina Drug addiction, it’s crucial to seek help. Numerous resources and treatment options are available, and recovery is entirely possible. Contact Zinnia Health 24/7 at (855) 430-9439.
Conclusion
While Gina Drug might seem appealing to some due to its initial euphoric effects, the potential dangers and long-term consequences are dire. This includes both physical and psychological health problems, addiction, social and economic difficulties, and serious risks for pregnant women and their babies.
Treatment options including detoxification, therapy, and social support can pave the way to recovery and a healthier future.
Author: Jessica Lewis, PharmD. Jessica is an adept and passionate medical writer with seven years of experience in medical communications, exposed to academic and technical writing. Conducted literature reviews and wrote clinical deliverables for large, global healthcare companies such as Baxter, Olympus, and Johnson & Johnson.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-lewis-pharmd-ms-960658b0/