So it's not just the LEAD any more?

Toys linked to date-rape drug recalled

Chinese-made beads for children metabolize into GHB when ingested
The Associated Press

updated 5:47 p.m. CT, Wed., Nov. 7, 2007

WASHINGTON - Millions of Chinese-made children's toys have been pulled from shelves in North America and Australia after scientists found it contained a chemical that converts into a powerful "date rape" drug when ingested.

Two children in the U.S. and three in Australia were hospitalized after swallowing the beads. In the United States, the toy goes by the name Aqua Dots, which are distributed by Spin Master Toys based in Toronto.

The beads are sold in general merchandise stores for use in arts and crafts projects. They can be arranged into designs and fuse together when sprayed with water.

Scientists say the beads contain a chemical that the human body metabolizes into the so-called date rape drug Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate. When eaten, the compound — made from common and easily available ingredients — can induce unconsciousness, seizures, drowsiness, coma and death.

The recall was announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission on Friday several hours after it was announced in Australia.

© 2007 The Associated Press