GHB and "knockout drops" in Germany: The comprehensive guide

(Everything you need to know about drink spiking, risks, laws and protection)

1. what are "knockout drops"?

In Germany, K.O. drops (short for Knockout drops) any substance that is secretly mixed into a drink for the purpose of drugging, incapacitating or assaulting a person.

While GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyric acid) and its predecessor GBL (gamma-butyrolactone) are among the best known, other substances such as benzodiazepines (z. e.g. Rohypnol), ketamine or strong sleeping pills are used.

Why GHB/GBL stands out:

• Fast effect
• Difficult to recognize
• Very small quantity required
• Leads to confusion and memory lapses

2 What is GHB and how does it work?

GHB is a strong CNS depressant (Central nervous system depressant). In medicine it is used under the trade name Xyrem prescribed for the treatment of narcolepsy. It is usually available on the black market as a clear liquid or powder.

Effect in low dosage:

• Relaxation, less anxiety
• Increased sociability
• Slight euphoria
• Uninhibitedness

Effect in high doses or in combination with alcohol:

• Nausea, vomiting
• Drowsiness, dizziness
• Slurred speech
• Muscle weakness
• Unconsciousness
• Memory loss (anterograde amnesia)
• Slow or interrupted breathing → Danger to life

Why it is dangerous: The boundary between "party dose" and overdose can be less than 0.5 ml amount.

3. why is GHB often associated with drink spiking?

Offenders use GHB/GBL for several reasons:

1. Invisible in the drink - colorless, odorless and often tasteless in diluted form.
2. Very small quantity required - A few milliliters are enough to put an adult person out of action.
3. Fast onset of action - First effects after 15-30 minutes.
4. Short traceability - GHB disappears from the blood after 6-8 hours and from the urine after 12 hours.
5. Severe memory lapses - Victims often cannot remember anything later.

4. legal situation in Germany

• GHBSubject to the Narcotics Act (BtMG) - Annex III → illegal without a doctor's prescription.
• GBLNot classified as a narcotic, but by the Chemicals Act and the Hazardous Substances Ordinance regulated. Possession is permitted for legitimate industrial purposes, but conversion into GHB is a criminal offense.
• PenaltiesPossession, trafficking or use with criminal intent may result in imprisonment.

5 How common is drink spiking with GHB in Germany?

Exact figures are difficult to determine because:

• Many victims do not press charges.
• symptoms are often mistaken for alcohol intoxication.
• The substance is quickly broken down in the body and detection is difficult.

Police and aid organizations report incidents in Clubs, bars, at festivals and also at private parties. In recent years, major cities such as Berlin, Hamburg and Cologne have reported several investigations in which GHB was identified as a Knockout drops was in use.

6 How can GHB be detected?

In the body:

• BloodDetectable for up to 6-8 hours
• UrineDetectable for up to 12 hours
• Hair testsCan prove previous consumption, but cannot determine the exact time

In beverages:

• There are rapid tests, but these can be unreliable and often fail to detect other substances.

7 What should you do if you suspect that you have been knocked out?

1. Seek help immediately - Tell friends or staff.
2. Dial emergency call (112) if you or someone else falls unconscious.
3. Secure evidence - Keep the drink and, if possible, do not go to the toilet until medical samples have been taken.
4. Go to hospital - specifically refer to toxicological tests and GHB.
5. Inform the police - file a complaint as soon as possible.

8 Myths and facts

9. protective measures in German nightlife

• Never leave drinks unattended.
• Only accept drinks from trustworthy persons or directly from the bartender.
• Use protective lids or special drinking straws.
• Being out and about with friends and looking out for each other.
• Get help immediately in the event of sudden, unexplained drowsiness.

10. conclusion

The connection between GHB and Knockout drops is based on its Invisibility, fast effect and high potency. The fight against drink spiking requires Clarification, security measures in nightlife, rapid medical assistance and consistent prosecution of offenders.

Being informed, recognizing symptoms and raising awareness can help make Germany's nightlife safer.

Disclaimer

This article serves for educational and information purposes only. It is not intended to promote or justify the use of GHB or other illegal substances. The information provided is not a substitute for professional medical, legal or police advice. If you believe you have been a victim of drink spiking or are experiencing a medical emergency, contact the emergency numbers in your country immediately.