The most common date rape drugs are Rohypnol (often called “roofies”), GHB (gamma hydroxybutyrate), and Ketamine. These drugs are potent and can quickly incapacitate a person when mixed with alcohol or other substances. Substance abuse involving date rape drugs, as noted by the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), can lead to physical symptoms, severe anxiety, and withdrawal symptoms.

They may suddenly feel more amorous and sexual and respond emotionally to others in ways that are not characteristic of them. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or a support hotline, having a supportive ear can make a world of difference. Express clearly what you’re feeling and why you suspect something might not be right. Additionally, unexplained physical injuries such as bruises can be a sign.

• But, the dangers of being drug-abused, without violence or sexual assault, are also real.
• Bring all of the people involved in the test to the clinic to be tested.
• They are best known for their use in drug-facilitated sexual assaults.
• For individuals who have been sexually assaulted, the trauma can have a profound impact, affecting not just the victims but also family members connected to them.

Roofies usually don’t have a taste, which can make it difficult to tell if a drug may have slipped into your drink. It is also important to note that a substance can be slipped into a drink almost instantly, especially if it is in powder form. It is also important to go out with people you trust and ensure everyone looks out for each other. By following these simple tips, you can reduce your risk of falling victim to roofieing. Rohypnol, the drug often referred to as a roofie, primarily affects your central nervous system, which controls many essential functions. Access State-Specific Provider Directories for detailed information on locating licensed service providers and recovery residences in your area.

It can produce feelings of confusion, drowsiness, and amnesia or sedate a person in large doses. GHB is also known as liquid X, liquid ecstasy, liquid E, easy lay, Georgia home boy, Gib, Goop, G, G-riffic, organic Quaalude, salty water, soap, scoop, or fantasy. It can be found in dissolvable powder or liquid form and has a salty taste that can be masked by other strong flavors in a drink. Effects take hold within 15 to 30 minutes and can last up to six hours.

After regaining consciousness, some people who were roofied may only recall what happened before the drug took hold and never recall what happened after they were drugged. Nausea, or feeling unsettled or sick to your stomach, is commonly felt after being drugged. We have certified counselors and medical professionals available to guide you toward healing and reclaiming your strength. RAINN provides a convenient chat feature as well as the National Sexual Assault Hotline for those who believe they have fallen victim to sexual how to know you were roofied assault. Even in a seemingly innocuous state like Utah, public health data resources suggest that one in six women experience rape (a figure that also includes attempted rape) during their lifetime.

• When mixed with alcohol, their effects are amplified, increasing the risk of respiratory depression, unconsciousness, and even overdose.
• A date rape panel drug test can test for substances like GHB, ketamine, and different benzodiazepines like Rohypnol.
• Recognizing the signs and symptoms of being roofied is crucial to understanding your experience and helping you regain a sense of control.

Common Slang Names for Cocaine

These drugs are typically odorless, tasteless, and can be easily dissolved in beverages, making them difficult to detect. When ingested, they can cause sedation, memory loss, and muscle relaxation, rendering the victim vulnerable to exploitation. Be sure that they will investigate and attempt to find out who drugged you. Tell them where you were and when you believe you were drugged so they can visit the crime scene and ask staff or witnesses if they noticed anything unusual.

Legal Recourse and Reporting

Because you may lose consciousness very quickly in this situation, acting fast is essential at the onset of any signs you’ve been roofied. It’s also important to seek medical care afterward if you wake up the next day suspecting you’ve been roofied. I had my drink ‘spiked’ once while travelling as a young backpacker through Europe about ten years ago.

If you wake up with marks on your body that you can’t explain, it’s essential to consider your experience closely. This sensation isn’t just about the physical realm, but your mental wellbeing too! The consequences go beyond just the immediate effects; those who are roofied might face various challenges, such as anxiety or PTSD, which can linger long after the event.

Body Dysmorphia in Teens

You might feel like you mysteriously lost a chunk of time or only remember what happened up until a certain point. By staying aware of your surroundings and understanding the effects these drugs can have, you can help keep yourself and the people around you safe. If you are experiencing symptoms of being roofied and suspect someone has slipped you an illicit drug, call 911 immediately. Don’t drive, and don’t leave the area you’re at unless you’re in danger.

While it is legally prescribed as a prescription medication for specific medical uses in some countries, it is not approved for medical use in the United States. Be prepared to provide emotional support even after they’re discharged and the side effects of being roofied start. Remind them that the traumatic event wasn’t their fault, especially if they were sexually assaulted or raped. When a person is sexually assaulted, it can impact their whole life, including their mental health, physical health, and well-being. Stay alert, stay safe, and remember that help is available whenever you need it. In social settings, staying vigilant, keeping your drink within sight, and looking out for your friends are essential habits.

Brief History of Roofies and Their Use

These symptoms collectively contribute to a distressing experience, alerting individuals that something is profoundly wrong. Any person who has been roofied should drink as much water as possible to try to dilute the drug and flush it from the body. If you’re going to a new place for a night out, ask around or check social media posts to learn about the venue’s reputation. Sometimes people will let you know if an area is known for being dangerous.

When a drink is roofieing, a sedative drug is added to your beverage, often without you even noticing. If you or someone you know has been the victim of sexual assault or rape and need guidance and support, it is important to speak to a rape crisis team in your area. They will be able to offer counseling, arrange health screenings, and advise about pursuing criminal charges against attackers. While it is never the victim’s fault for being exposed to roofies, some steps can be taken to reduce the risk of becoming a victim. While some of these may seem straightforward, many people who have been roofied fall victim to simple techniques used by criminals.

Drink Water

Even if you are unsure, it is better to err on the side of caution and consult a healthcare professional. They can assess your condition, provide necessary medical treatment, and conduct tests to determine if any substances were used to incapacitate you. If you suspect you’ve been roofied, it’s crucial to immediately head to an emergency room for a comprehensive medical examination. Healthcare professionals can administer a rape kit to collect evidence and may also provide pregnancy prevention medication as a precautionary measure. The duration that roofies remain detectable in your system can vary, but the presence of symptoms of being roofied, such as muscle relaxation, is a key indicator that the drug is still active.

If you or someone else notices these signs, it’s important to seek help immediately. Each of these drugs shares common characteristics—they are all CNS depressants that impair your ability to think clearly, move effectively, and remember events. If you’re wondering what roofies do, the answer lies in their powerful sedative effects. Another indicator that someone has been roofied is if they have been talking to strangers shortly before effects present themselves, especially if said strangers have bought them drinks. Amusement – It may seem cruel and unusual, but some victims of being roofied have had it done to them just for the enjoyment of other people.

If alcohol or other substances are in your system, these effects may be even more pronounced and prolonged. On rare occasions, you might notice a slight bitter or salty taste if a substance has been added. However, this isn’t a reliable indicator, so it is best to always be cautious. Avoid accepting drinks from strangers and never leave your beverage unattended to minimize your risk of being roofied. Because roofies are colorless, tasteless, and odorless, it is nearly impossible to tell if a drink has been tampered with. When mixed with alcohol, the effects of these drugs are significantly enhanced, increasing the risk of respiratory problems, unconsciousness, and overdose.