Overview

Although alcohol is the most commonly used drug to facilitate sexual assaults, other drugs--such as Rohypnol and Gamma Hydroxybutyrate (GHB)--are being used more frequently to sedate victims in order to sexually assault them. Commonly referred to as "date rape drugs" or "predatory drugs", Rohypnol and GHB can be given to victims without their knowledge and can prevent them from resisting sexual assaults. The drugs can create an amnesia-effect so that the victims are uncertain as to what, if anything, occurred. The drugs are usually administered at a bar, party or social function and can be disguised in alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages.

 What is Rohypnol? (Flunirtazepam)

This drug is a form of a sleeping pill belonging to the same class of drugs as Valium, Librium and Xanax.

Common Street Names

Roofies, Ruffies, Roche, R-Z Rib, Rope, R-2s, Lunch Money, Minuses, Pluses, Stupefi, Shays, Roach, Robutal, La Rocha

Use and Effects

Rohypnol is ingested orally, frequently in conjunction with alcohol or other drugs. The effects begin within 30 minutes, peak within 2 hours and may persist for up to eight hours or more depending on the dosage. Adverse effects of this drug are a decrease in blood pressure, memory impairment, drowsiness, visual disturbances, dizziness and confusion, and with some people it can cause excitability and aggressive behavior.

It is commonly reported that persons who become intoxicated on a combination of alcohol and Rohypnol have "blackouts" lasting 6 to 12 hours or longer following ingestion. Lack of inhibition is another widely reported effect. Urine tests can determine the presence of Rohypnol in the body for 60-72 hours. By itself, Rohypnol is very unlikely to cause death but with the alcohol the possibility exists that the combination could be fatal.

What is GHB? (Gamma- Hydroxybutyrate)

GHB was originally developed as an anesthetic, but withdrawn due to unwanted side effects. It has been used for the treatment of narcolepsy, alcohol withdrawal symptoms, and more recently as a growth hormone stimulant and fat burning drug used by body builders. In 1990, the FDA banned the sale of GHB in the United States. 

GHB can be produced in the form of a white powder, but is more commonly encountered as an odorless, clear liquid. GHB has a salty taste which is masked when mixed with a drink. GHB will remain in a person's blood for approximately 4 hours and will remain detectable in the urine for up to 12 hours.

Common Street Names

GHB, Liquid Ecstasy, Liquid X, Grievous Bodily Harm, Goop, Georgia Home Boy, Easy Lay, G-Juice, Sea Water, Cherry Meth 

Use and Effects

GHB is primarily used by body builders with the false assumption that it will burn fat and increase hormone growth. It is promoted as a drug that will increase one's sexual awareness and lead to more sexual activity. Low doses result in a general feeling if euphoria (similar to being moderately under the effect of alcohol) which includes: decreased inhibitions, increased sociability, followed by drowsiness then sleep. Higher doses result in an immediate onset of intoxication leading to a deep unresponsive sleep, shallow breathing, decreased blood pressure and invariably amnesia. In conjunction with alcohol or any depressant drug, it may be fatal. This drug can be easily disguised in any beverage. Within a few minutes of drinking the liquid, the victim will appear intoxicated and become helpless. Because GHB is quickly absorbed into the human body, evidence will be lost if the victim's blood or urine is not preserved soon after the attack.

The Latest Drug

 "Fry cigarettes," the most recent drug used in drug-facilitated sexual assaults, consist of tobacco and marijuana cigarettes coated with embalming fluid. Also known as "water-water", "drank" and "wetdaddy," these cigarettes are incredibly dangerous, creating psychosis, hallucinations, delusions, and loss of consciousness. Cigarettes coated with embalming fluid taste like rubbing alcohol and smell like gasoline when lit. 

Reduce the Risk of Becoming a Victim of Drug Induced Rape

When going to a bar, party, or social event, never go alone. Friends can watch out for each other. Never accept a drink from anyone except the bartender and watch your drink being mixed. Don't share or exchange drinks. If you feel you are becoming severely intoxicated after only one or two drinks, get help.

 What if it Happens to Me?

If you have unaccounted for time, a lapse of memory, or wake up in a strange place and feel you have been sexually assaulted, contact a local law enforcement agency immediately. Remember: rapists are repeat offenders. By reporting this crime, you may save someone else from being attacked. Collect your first urine sample in a clean container. This may be the only evidence linking the drug to the crime. Do not bathe, shower, douche, wash clothing, bedding or disturb anything in the area where the assault occurred. References Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Department of Justice, "DEA Press Release Fact Sheet," 13 March 2000. The Sexual Assault Resource and Counseling Center of Lebanon County, "How To Prevent Drug Induced Rape" brochure.