GHB is a naturally occurring chemical found in the human brain and other parts of the body. It acts as a neurotransmitter and one-time offer has both medical and recreational uses. First synthesized in the 1960s, it was intended for use as an anesthetic, but its side effects and potential for abuse limited its medical application. Over time, it became more widely known for its sedative and euphoric properties, especially within party and club cultures.

In the medical world, GHB is used in the form of sodium oxybate, a regulated drug primarily used to treat narcolepsy, a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden muscle weakness called cataplexy. When taken under the supervision of a healthcare provider, it has been shown to improve sleep quality and reduce symptoms of narcolepsy.