Sponsor Statement for HB 163

Classifying Gamma Hydroxybutyrate as Controlled Substance

Gamma Hydroxybutyrate (GHB), is known by street names that include Liquid E, Liquid X, GBH, Gib, liquid ecstasy, Scoop, Georgia Home Boy, Natural Sleep-500, and Oxy-sleep. is one of the many "date rape" drugs being used in the United States. Illegal use of the drug is on the increase in the United States and passed illegal drug use trends indicate that Alaska will soon be confronted with GHB’s effects. Currently, GHB is not scheduled as a controlled substance in Alaska.

GHB depresses the respiratory system and reduces the amount of oxygen the brain receives, resulting in unconsciousness and loss of memory. As is the case with Rohypnol, victims of drug induced rape through use of GHB can not identify their victims and conviction is difficult and rare. This bill further send the message that we will not tolerate in our society those who would perpetrate sexual abuse.

According to James Tolliver of DEA’s Seattle office, the major problem with GHB is this drug is exclusively made in home laboratories. He said home brewers mix the chemicals into a milky paste which they let sit. After a while the liquid separates from the powder. If the compound sits longer, the liquid evaporates and the producer has a powder material. The powdery salt dissolve instantly when added to liquid. The drug is odorless and nearly tasteless so is virtuously undetectable in a drink.

Until the drug was banned by FDA, bodybuilders used it as a "soft drug" steroid to build muscles and enhance performance.

Orphan Medical is currently going through the FDA process to get approval to use Xyrem, a trademark name for gamma hydroxybutyrate in powder form, for Narcolepsy treatment.

California passed legislation on February 25, 1997 that classifies the drug as a Schedule IV Controlled Substance.