Woman and teenage girls are being warned to be aware of men trying to spike their drinks after reports of widespread use of the so-called date rape drug GHB (gamma-Hydroxybutyric acid) in Chiang Mai’s nightlife and entertainment venues.

The stern warning follows the police seizure of a large quantity of GHB, one of the three most common date rape drugs in addition to rohypnol and ketamine, from a man in Chiang Mai.

Officials warned the drug was prevalent in the northern province. 

Food and Drug Administration secretary-general Boonchai Somboonsuk said the drug, also known as "club drug", was illegal in Thailand and was classified as a sedative. 

''GHB is generally ingested in a liquid form which had no odour or colour. Victims may not be aware that they have ingested it and this is very dangerous,'' Dr Boonchai said.

The drug could produce feelings of relaxation and euphoria as well as cause sudden sedation and loss of consciousnes, resulting in widespread abuse of the drug. 

Consumption of alcohol spiked with an overdose of GHB can be fatal.

Dr Boonchai made seven recommendations for women at risk of drug related sexual assault.

1. Avoid going to a club, pub or party alone.

2. Avoid drinking alcohol, or if you drink, do so in moderation and stay aware at all times.

3. Don't accept a drink from anyone you do not know or do not trust.

4. Drink slowly as ingesting a small amount of the drug means you may have more time to seek help from trusted people. 

5. Don't share drinks.

6. Don't take drinks from large open containers such as punch bowls. 

7. Don't leave your drink unattended, even when going to the toilet. Drink only from cans or bottles you open yourself and keep an eye on your drink at all times. If you start to feel drunk or dizzy, do not accept help from strangers, because they might be the people who drugged you. 

Related search: GHB, date rape drug, drink spiking, rohypnol, ketamine