Gamma Hydroxybutyrate (GHB; "G") By Gerald F O'Malley, DO, Grand Strand Regional Medical Center; Rika O'Malley, MD, Grand Strand Medical Center Reviewed / Revised Dec 2022 View Patient Education Symptoms Diagnosis Treatment Gamma hydroxybutyrate causes intoxication resembling alcohol intoxication or ketamineintoxication and, especially when combined with alcohol, can lead to respiratory depression, seizures, and rarely death.