🧠 Wake-Up Call: GHB Emergencies Spike Among Young Adults
- Safer Sips
- Jul 21
- 3 min read
A recent Monash University and Turning Point analysis has revealed a shocking 67% increase in GHB-related ambulance call-outs in Victoria between 2022 and 2023—rising from 2,211 to 3,693 incidents. Geelong alone now represents over 30% of Victoria’s call-outs and has seen a tenfold rise since 2018. Even Tasmania isn’t immune, with an astounding 346% spike in GHB-related emergencies in that same period.
GHB, often dubbed “liquid ecstasy”, is a powerful CNS depressant that is colourless, odourless, and virtually undetectable in drinks. It’s dangerously unpredictable—just a tiny amount over the intended dose can trigger overdose symptoms like unconsciousness and respiratory failure .
What’s Fueling This Surge?
Cost-of-living pressures – Many young adults are ditching alcohol due to rising prices, turning instead to cheaper, illicit substances like GHB. According to Drinkwise, 65% of Gen Z want to drink less, and 23% avoid alcohol completely—but cheaper party drugs fill that gap.
Mental health triggers – The stress and anxiety of financial strain make some users more vulnerable to risky substance use.
Mixed messaging on “informed” use – Despite access to online dosage info, many underestimate how little it takes to overdose.
New demographic groups at risk – GHB usage is expanding beyond traditional party-scene drinkers to include women and people who inject drugs, often without adequate familiarity with safer use practices .
Consequences That Cut Deep
GHB overdoses can lead to respiratory depression, memory loss, vomiting, coma—even death .
Emergency departments report GHB as the 2nd most common ICU-admitted illicit drug after methamphetamine, despite lower usage rates.
New research suggests GHB is increasingly used alongside stimulants like meth, creating dangerous polydrug interactions.
A “Safer Sips” Mindset: Practical Tips for Reducing Harm
1. Test Before You Sip
Consider drink-spiking test strips like the recently launched CYD® (Check Your Drink) by Safer Sips. These strip tests can detect GHB (and dozens of other drugs) in seconds with ~99% accuracy.
These tools empower individuals to verify their drinks before consuming—especially valuable in nightlife settings.
2. Set Boundaries & Look Out for Mates
Always have a trusted friend to watch over your drink.
Don’t leave drinks unattended or accept opened beverages from late-night sources.
3. Know the Red Flags of Overdose
Watch for:
Sudden slurred speech, drifting in and out of consciousness
Vomiting, irregular breathing
Confusion or blank staring
If in doubt, call Triple Zero (000) immediately—paramedics are equipped to handle GHB overdoses .
4. Plan Ahead for Emergencies
Familiarise yourself with the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline (1800 250 015) for confidential support.
Pre-agree with your group on what to do if someone becomes unresponsive.
5. Advocate for Harm Reduction Services
Support regional and fixed-site programs (like mobile drug-checking at festivals), particularly in emerging hotspots like Geelong .
Push for early-intervention services—educational outreach, mental-health support, financial resilience programs—to address root causes.
Beyond the Drink: Addressing the Bigger Picture
Experts emphasise that economic and social stressors—not just the availability of drugs—are driving substance use behaviors . Any effective public health strategy must:
Alleviate cost-of-living pressures through social support
Improve access to mental health services
Provide accessible, community-based harm reduction
Final Sip
The surge in GHB-related ambulance call-outs among young Australians is a stark warning. But through smart harm reduction strategies, greater access to testing, and strong social support, we can turn the tide. A “safer sips” culture—where we test, watch each other, and support mental well-being—can help keep weekends fun and people safe.
Let’s look out for each other, speak up about risks, and demand the health resources our communities deserve. Your choices can make the next night out a safer one—not just for you, but for everyone around you.
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