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Date Rape Drugs

Table of Contents


Overview

Drugs that have been used in date rapes include flunitrazepam (Rohypnol) and gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB).

GHB

GHB is a central nervous system depressant. It may also be called liquid ecstasy, G, or soap. GHB may be a clear, odorless liquid or a white powder. It can be added to a drink without a person knowing it. It can cause overdose and death.

At low doses, the person may feel:

Side effects include:

This drug does not stay in a person's system very long. It may not be found with drug screening tests.

Rohypnol

Rohypnol (say "roh-HIP-nawl") is a central nervous system depressant. It's often called roofies. It is similar to prescription medicines like diazepam (Valium), but it's much stronger. One small tablet can produce effects for 8 to 12 hours.

Rohypnol is a tasteless, odorless tablet that can be crushed and dissolved in liquid. It has been used in date rapes, because it can be slipped into a drink without a person knowing it. When this drug is mixed with alcohol, the person may pass out (become unconscious). It can produce a form of memory loss (amnesia). So the person may not remember what happened while they were under the influence of the drug.

This drug is sometimes used to enhance the high of heroin. It may also be used to ease the negative effects of a crack or cocaine binge.

Rohypnol may lead to death when mixed with alcohol or other depressant drugs.


Credits for Date Rape Drugs

Current as of: November 15, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
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