Blue 69: what it is, effects and side effects

What is Blue 69?

Blue 69 or Original 69 is an illegal designer drug that is increasingly popping up in nightlife in the Netherlands. It is sold as a blue coloured drink in small bottles or tubes. The exact composition can vary from bottle to bottle, but usually Blue 69 contains a combination of GHB, MDMA (XTC), amphetamine (speed) and Blue Cura (alcohol). However, this is often not the case that it stops there. 

Sometimes it even contains sildenafil (the active ingredient in Viagra) or even ketamine. This makes the effect very unpredictable and the risks can be high. Because you don't know exactly what and how much is in it, dosing is a gamble and you easily (unknowingly) take a dangerous amount. 

So what looks like a harmless drink actually turns out to contain a dangerous combination of several hard drugs.

What's in Blue 69: contents and effects

Sometimes these drinks are referred to as ‘liquid XTC’. However, this designation is misleading, as other psychoactive substances may be present in addition to MDMA (XTC). As Blue 69 consists of a mixture of different psychoactive substances, the effects are a cocktail of stimulant, narcotic and perception-altering sensations. 

MDMA (the active substance in XTC) is known for its stimulating and empathogenic effects: users feel energised, connected to others and experience more intense emotions. 

GHB acts as a narcotic that can evoke feelings of relaxation, euphoria and disinhibition. In low doses, one often feels more social and loose, but in higher doses GHB can lead to loss of consciousness and breathing problems. 

Speed (amphetamine) adds extra energy and alertness. Sometimes these drinks are called ‘liquid XTC’. But that is not a clear name when they contain other drugs besides XTC (MDMA).

The addition of alcohol and sometimes sildenafil makes the mix even more complex: alcohol enhances the narcotic effects of GHB, while sildenafil increases the risk of heart problems. Also take into account that it is even more harmful when combined with stimulants like speed (also called pep) and MDMA.

What are the effects and side effects of Blue 69?

The effects can vary a lot, depending on the composition, the dosage and the sensitivity of the user. Common words to describe the effects of Blue 69 are: euphoria, hyperactivity, disinhibition and increased sexual arousal. Yet experiences are not always positive.

Positive effects:

• Bliss and increased sociability
• Increased self-confidence and reduced inhibitions
• Increased libido and sexual drive
• Increased energy, alertness and talkativeness
• Feelings of warmth or tingling through the body

Negative effects:

• Confusion and anxiety
• Nausea and vomiting
• Severe dizziness
• Muscle tremors and jaw clenching
• Extreme thirst and overheating
• Blackouts or memory loss
• Respiratory depression or unconsciousness

Because Blue 69 combines different types of drugs, you can therefore experience both stimulant and narcotic effects at the same time, which can be hugely stressful for the body.

What are the risks and dangers of Blue 69?

Using Blue 69 poses significant health risks. The main dangers lie in the combination of substances, the unpredictability of the dosage and the fact that many users are not fully aware of what they are taking.

The main risks

Overdose: due to the presence of GHB, there is a real risk of overdose. Just a small amount too much can lead to unconsciousness, coma or even death. Especially if alcohol is also present in the body, this risk is greatly increased.

Heart problems: the combination of stimulants such as speed and MDMA increases heart rate and blood pressure. In people with weak hearts or unknown heart problems, this can even lead to arrhythmias or a heart attack.

Respiratory depression: GHB and alcohol are both substances that suppress breathing. Taken together, they can cause breathing to become so weak that oxygen deprivation and loss of consciousness occur.

Psychological problems: feelings of depression, anxiety or severe confusion may occur after using Blue 69. Especially after MDMA and speed wear off, a considerable ‘comedown’ often occurs, during which serotonin levels in the brain are temporarily very low.
Addiction: GHB can lead to physical dependence if used regularly. Addiction to GHB is notorious because withdrawal symptoms can be extremely severe, including insomnia, anxiety attacks and even psychosis.

Difference between Blue 69, Hulk and Red: variants explained

Blue69 is also more often sold under names like ‘Hulk’ or ‘Red Dragon’, but what exactly is the difference between these? The basics remain the same: a mix of different drugs. Only the colour and proportions of the substances may differ. ‘Green Hulk’ is green, usually due to the use of Pisang Ambon. ‘Red’ or ‘Red Dragon’ is red, although the alcohol most commonly used for this varies greatly. As the composition is always different, the risk remains high and so you never know exactly what you are ingesting.

Legal status of Blue 69: laws and regulations

Blue 69 contains substances covered by the Dutch Opium Act. GHB, MDMA and amphetamine are on List I of this law and are therefore prohibited substances. The possession, trade and production of Blue 69 is therefore punishable in the Netherlands.

Moreover, the consequences of use, for example causing an accident while under the influence, can also have hefty legal consequences.

What should you do in case of an overdose?

If someone becomes unconscious, extremely lethargic or has difficulty breathing after using Blue 69, you should react quickly and seek medical attention immediately. Always call 112.

Put the person in the stable side position to prevent choking if they vomit. Do not give drinks, food or other means to ‘help’ as this may actually make the situation worse.

Do not wait for someone to ‘get better’ on their own. When using GHB, the situation can deteriorate life-threateningly within minutes.

Safe use of Blue 69 and important tips to reduce risks 

• For those who take their health seriously, using Blue 69 is definitely not recommended. Remember: one wrongly taken dose can change your life or that of another forever.
• Are you aware of the risks and decide to use Blue 69 anyway? Then pay attention to the following points:
• Have the composition tested, as you never know exactly what is in it;
• Make sure you are always in company;
• Drink enough water, but also not too much to avoid water intoxication;
• Know your limits, stick to a safe dose and be mindful of your body