GHB and sexual assult

GHB (and its related substances) can be used as a date rape drug because large doses can be easily mixed with liquids including water. GHB by itself has a soapy or salty taste but when mixed with a drink it can be very difficult for a victim to detect by sight or smell.

High doses of GHB can induce a sleep like coma where the victim is in an unconscious state and very vulnerable to sexual assault.

The extent to which GHB is used as a date rape drug in New Zealand is unknown, largely due to the short life of the drug in the body and routine toxicology tests often do not detect GHB and related compounds.

If you suspect you have had your drink spiked, or have been sexually assaulted while under the influence of a date rape drug, you should report it to the Police as soon as you are able.