Rohypnol, or “roofies,” is a potent benzodiazepine with a reputation as a common date rape drug. The phrase “roofied” has come to refer to any sexual assault where the victim is given drugs. You might think that date rape drugs are something out of a criminal drama.
But the sad fact is that it has significantly impacted many individuals and continues to hurt thousands of lives today. This article will discuss the dangers of these date rape drugs, their symptoms, and how to stay safe.
What are Roofies?
Roofies are date rape drugs facilitating sexual assault by purposely knocking out victims. It started with the benzodiazepine and depressive Rohypnol, or “Flunitrazepam.” It is currently one of the most widely used date rape drugs. These are hard to notice due to their lack of flavor and smell when spiked in a drink. The term “being roofied” refers to being given drugs against one’s consent.
How Long Do Roofies Persist?
Rohypnol has sedative effects up to 10 times more potent than Valium. Roofies’ impact on the body can start 20 minutes after ingestion and extend for more than six hours. Specific lingering symptoms, such as disorientation and memory loss, may last 12 hours or longer after ingestion.
How to Tell Whether You’ve Been Roofied
Depending on the individual, a drug used in date rape may cause varied symptoms or adverse effects; however, there are consistent and apparent signs that you’ve been roofied. Let’s look at some typical symptoms and warning signs.
- Fog-like sensation
- Explicit memory lapses
- sedative emotions
- Issues with concentration
- Disorientation
- Uneasiness
- Incapacitation
- Problems with control of the muscles
- Vomiting
- Body tremors
- Numbness of paralysis
Here are some immediate consequences a victim can encounter:
- Disorientation
- Memory lapse
- Uneasiness
- sensitivity-related discomfort (when sexually abused)
- Severe headaches
- Photophobic
- Shivering
- Aching of the muscles
Individuals who have been raped or drugged must immediately be taken to the closest hospital for medical care or attention.
How to Prevent Being Roofied
Although the victim is never to blame for being exposed to roofies, several precautions can be taken to lessen the likelihood of being a victim. Even though some of these may seem obvious, many victims of roofies fall prey to easy tricks utilized by crooks.
- Whenever you can, pour your beverage
- Keep an eye on your drink
- Don’t accept a drink if you haven’t observed it prepared
- Stick with your companions and, if you can, order drinks together
- Get emergency assistance if you begin to feel strange or ill
- Drink responsibly
- Be on the lookout for drinks that look and taste unusual
These actions can lessen your risk of falling victim to date rape drugs.
Conclusion
Getting roofied can be detrimental, though knowing the signs and symptoms of date rape drugs is essential to protect yourself and those around you. Always watch your drinks and be well acquainted with your surroundings.
If you suspect you have been drugged, seek medical assistance immediately and keep evidence, such as the spiked drink, for further investigation by the authorities if possible.
