It has come to my attention that an extremely dangerous drug, gammahydroxybutyric acid (GHB), also known as "Liquid G" or "Blue Nitro," may be present at Harvard. I am concerned that students may not be aware of the severe health risks posed by this drug.
GHB, which is among the class of so-called "date rape drugs," is a powerful central nervous system depressant. At sufficient doses, and/or in combination with alcohol or other sedatives, GHB can cause seizures, coma and, in rare cases, death. It is rated as a Class 1 agent by the Food and Drug Administration because of its potential to cause serious, life-threatening symptoms and is illegal under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
We were alerted to the possible presence of GHB at the College last weekend, when Harvard police were called to a University residence for a medical emergency. Two people who were visiting friends at the residence and had ingested GHB and alcohol were taken to Mt. Auburn Hospital in grave physical distress, where they received life-saving medical treatment in the intensive care unit.
The College is deeply concerned for the health and safety of its students, especially with regard to the abuse of alcohol and other harmful substances, and I urge students who are experiencing problems with alcohol or drugs to seek help. Resources on campus include University Health Services, peer counseling groups and the Bureau of Study Counsel. I would be glad to discuss concerns about alcohol or drugs with any student.
I also want to remind students of this passage from the College's Handbook for Students:
"Harvard expects its students and employees to maintain an environment that is safe and healthy. The unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees on Harvard property or as part of any Harvard activity are violations of University rules as well as the law. Possession, use, or distribution of certain non-prescription drugs, including marijuana, amphetamines, heroin, cocaine, and non-prescription synthetics; procurement or distribution of alcohol to anyone under 21 years of age are violations of Harvard policy. The University holds its students and employees responsible for the consequences of their decisions to use or distribute illicit drugs or to serve or consume alcohol."
I am thankful that a tragedy was averted in this instance, and I sincerely hope that no such incident will confront us in the future.
David P. Illingworth
Sept. 22, 1999
The author is Associate Dean of Harvard College.
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