What to Know About “Date Rape” Drugs

Chances are, if you’re older than 20, you’ve heard the term “date rape” quite a bit. And like many of us, we didn’t know if it was the same as rape. Short answer: It is, “date rape” and “rape” are somewhat the same. “Date rape” is just a form of dating violence, and often refers to when rape occurs from someone you know. Typically, it refers to when the two parties were romantically involved previously or had a potential sexual relationship. Now, when you think about “date rape,” you probably think about the "date rape drugs." And we’re going to break those down.

The reality is that any drug can be used as roofies, but the most popular are:

• Flunitrazepam (Rohypnol)

• Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB)

• Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL)

• Ketamine

And we’re going to tell you the warning signs, and what to do if, God forbid, you know you’ve been roofied. 

Flunitrazepam (Rohypnol)

Flunitrazepam (or Rohypnol) is a sedative drug, either white or green and odorless. It causes muscle relaxation and lowered inhibitions. While most roofies can take up to an hour for the effects to begin, effects with Rohypnol can begin within 15–20 minutes.

Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB)

Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) is another common roofie, and like Rohypnol, it can cause relaxation, vomiting, and amnesia (memory loss).  GHB is a white powder that can easily be masked in drinks. However, it often has a salty or soapy taste, so there's something to look out for.

Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL)

Gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) is one of the most dangerous, simply because it can easily cause a fatal reaction. Plus, it's often used in cleaners and paint strippers. And this one is easier to detect. Many describe it as having a stale or burnt taste, so if your drink suddenly tastes like burnt plastic, throw it out. This one lasts three to six hours and has quicker effects.

Ketamine

Ketamine is another anesthetic that is colorless and odorless. Like the others, it causes impaired motor skills, nausea, sedation, and amnesia. And like the others, it can potentially be habit-forming.

While a lot of them are odorless and colorless, there are still ways to detect them. Look for:

• Any powder residue in your cup

• Extra foam 

• Odd fizziness 

• A new color that wasn’t there before

• A cloudy appearance

• Ice that sinks when it was floating

• New taste: bitter, salty, or burnt

Now, the big question: You know you’ve been roofied, what do you do next? The name of the game? Act fast!

• If you're at a bar or restaurant, you tell the manager or server.

• You, or your friend, or even a stranger to call 911.

• Don't eat anything else, because it can worsen or quicken the effects.

• Don’t force vomiting, it won’t help because it has hit your bloodstream.

Remember: stay with pals, get a driver cover from Amazon, and stay informed. You got this.