Lethal cocktail: drug fatal with alcohol

A clubbers' drug commonly used in sexual assaults is to be outlawed, ministers have announced.

GHB, which is also known as liquid ecstasy, is used as an upper by the clubbing community. But it has also been used in many so-called "date rape" cases.

The reclassification of the drug could see dealers facing up to five years in jail.

GHB is a drug developed as an anaesthetic and is produced as a white powder dissolved into water.

In small doses it acts as an "upper" but when taken in large quantities its anaesthetic effect can lead to respiratory problems.

The drug, sold over the counter in areas such as London's Soho, is potentially lethal when mixed with alcohol.

Home Office minister Caroline Flint said the decision, which comes into effect from Tuesday, was based on "sound medical and scientific evidence".

"GHB has been used in numerous drug assisted rapes and sexual assaults. By introducing jail terms for its possession and increasing them for supply we hope to help prevent the most despicable of crimes," she said.

"It's very important that we get the message across to club goers that this is a dangerous drug. People can pass out after just a few drops in an alcoholic drink, and an overdose could result in a coma.

"The strength of the liquid varies, so a user is often unaware how much they are taking. It's known as liquid ecstasy because it has similar effects to the Class A version - and also similar dangers."