How GHB Can Lead to a DUI Arrest
Over the past several months, John Stamos has been all over the national news. Of course, many fans of ‘90s television were ecstatic over his return to the set of Netflix’s “Fuller House.” He has also found a home on Fox’s “Grandfathered.” However, not all the recent news has been positive. Late last year, he was arrested for driving under the influence and underwent rehabilitation.
While he did have alcohol in his system — a lot of alcohol — it wasn’t the only thing influencing his driving. Blood tests also revealed a compound called Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate, or GHB. While this may sound like something that would be part of a superhero origin story, it’s much more common than you may think. Here is everything you need to know about GHB, and how it affects on the body and mind.
The Basics of GHB
GHB was originally created as a way to fight narcolepsy. It replicates a certain neurotransmitter in the brain, which affects sleep patterns. Usually, this neurotransmitter is found in rather low quantities in the brain, but GHB ups those levels and allows users to sleep more regularly. Because it causes the user to fall asleep, it is a Schedule III controlled substance. Legal users must be part of a strict access program to get a prescription.
However, when it is used illegally, it can have adverse effects. Stamos said he took it for the same reason competitive bodybuilders do: “to lean out body mass.” However, it is also a very popular date rape drug. Victims often have the drug delivered to them through drinks, and the sedative property of GHB prevents them from being able to resist assault.
Driving with GHB in Your System
When you have taken GHB, even legally or for bodybuilding purposes like Stamos did, the effects are the same. There is a feeling of euphoria and other effects similar to other drugs that get you high. As mentioned before, the drug also makes users sleepy and slow to respond. High doses could even cause seizures and respiratory depression. This is a serious problem if you are trying to operate a vehicle traveling down the highway.
If you believe you have been slipped GHB at a bar or party, the best thing you can do is call 911 or have a trusted friend drive you to a hospital. Don’t try to drive yourself. If you took the drug on your own, legally or otherwise, the standard advice remains: do not get behind the wheel of a car. It can be dangerous, and even deadly, to both you and other drivers on the road. At the very least, being pulled over from driving under the influence of drugs can lead to steep fines and even jail time.
If you have been arrested for a DUI in DeKalb County, whether or not drugs were involved, your best option is to contact an experienced attorney to represent you. Contact us today for a free consultation.
