What are GHB Analogs?
• gamma-valerolactone • 4-pentanolide Both GBL and BD metabolize into GHB upon ingestion. GBL is the most common precursor used in the production of GHB. GVL is abused in place of GHB because it metabolizes into GHV, which produces physiological effects similar to GHB. A major problem is that GHB analogs are readily available as components of other products. Some GHB analog abusers begin consuming dietary supplements believing the claims made by manufacturers, and then find themselves addicted to the product. Often users are unaware that they are consuming an analog and mistakenly believe that the substance they are ingesting is GHB. GHB analogs typically are abused in place of GHB by users who want to experience the effects associated with GHB and who find the analogs more widely available or easily obtained.
