GBL (Gamma-Butyrolactone) / GHB (Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate)

Gamma butyrolactone (GBL) is a chemical in cleaning solutions and nail polish. In the body, GBL is converted to gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), a date-rape drug.

When the body converts GBL into GHB, it can turn off some functions of the nervous system.

Despite serious safety concerns, people use GBL as a party drug, for athletic performance, depression, and other purposes, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

GBL is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, making it illegal in the US. Don’t confuse GBL with Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) or 1,4-Butanediol. These chemicals are related but are not the same.