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Article 1: Bosch, O.G., Quednow, B.B., Seifritz, E., & Wetter, T. C. (2012). Reconsidering GHB: Orphan drug or new model antidepressant? Journal of Psychopharmacology, 26, 618-28.

Summary: The article discusses the neurobiological effects of GHB, its abuse liability, and its potential role in the treatment of depression.

Questions to Consider: [Critical thinking questions based on the article to gauge student comprehension and analysis]

1. How do the behavioral effects of GHB vary across dose?
2. How does GHB affect dopamine and norepinephrine?
3. What role might GABA_B and GHB receptors play in depression?
    

Article 2: Németh, Z., Kun, B., & Demtrovics, Z. (2010). The involvement of gamma-hydroxybutyrate in reported sexual assaults: A systematic review. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 24, 1281-7.

Summary: This paper reviews the literature to determine the extent to which GHB is used in cases of sexual assault.

Questions to Consider:

1. How does GHB compare to other drugs in terms of sexual assault?
2. Why is detection of GHB difficult in cases of sexual assault?
3. Based on the literature reviewed here, should GHB be labeled a “date rape” drug?
    

Article 3: Shamblen, S. R., & Miller, T. (2012). Inhalant initiation and the relationship of inhalant use to the use of other substances. Journal of Drug Education, 42, 327-46.

Summary: This study describes research that compares the use and timing of inhalants with other drugs of abuse.

Questions to Consider:

1. How does the use of inhalants differ from popular wisdom or conceptions might suggest?
2. How do youth who start with inhalants differ from those who start with alcohol or marijuana in terms of later drug use?
3. What limitations exist for the research described in this paper?