Rohypnol, pictured here, is commonly used as a date rape drug.
GHB and Rohypnol, both called by a lengthy list of alternate street names, are commonly used in clubs or as “date rape” drugs. Their near complete undetectable nature makes them a common tool for predators seeking to victimize partygoers.
Both substances are highly toxic, illegal and dangerous, leading treatment experts at Narconon urging parents and youth alike to learn and pass on this potentially life-saving information about GHB and Rohypnol.
Important Facts About GHB and Rohypnol
Rohypnol (Flunitrazepam) is a potent prescription sedative, central nervous system depressant drug in the benzodiazepine family (the same umbrella drug category as Xanax and Valium). Although Rohypnol is illegal for both manufacture and distribution in the United States,
Rohypnol is addictive and, when ingested, may produce a variety of sedative (sleepy), relaxed, drunk or hypnotic effects including extreme muscle relaxation and periods of memory loss. Commonly used as a “date rape drug,” Rohypnol’s tasteless nature enables it to remain undetected when added to alcohol or any drink to make victims less resistive to attack or sexual assault.
Rohypnol’s Effects and Alternate Names
Rohypnol is also called by a number of different street names, including:
- Roofies
- Rope
- Rophies
- Roach
- Ruffles
- Circles
- Mexican Valium
- Forget-Me-Pill
- Date Rape Drug
“Roofies” can be snorted, swallowed (orally) or dissolved in a drink, and the drug is occasionally taken by users with alongside other drugs to intensify a high or lessen the negative feelings associated with coming down off of a cocaine or heroin high. Rohypnol, addictive in itself, has been known to cause disorientation, loss of motor control skills, nausea, difficulty speaking and other withdrawal symptoms.
Basic GHB Information
Gamma Hydroxybutate (GHB) is an odorless, colorless illegal drug which as earned a reputation amongst ravers and club-goers as an intense producer of euphoric, dissociative feelings and hallucinations. Additionally, the highly addictive substance has been seen used among avid fitness buffs who abuse GHB to aid bodybuilding efforts.
Mostly produced in makeshift home labs, this central nervous system depressant “designer drug” is ingested orally, whether in tablet or liquid form, and is called by a number of alternate street names:
- Liquid Ecstasy
- G
- Georgia Home Boy
- Grievous Bodily Harm
- Cups
- Scoop
Some report GHB has a mild salty taste which becomes undetectable when added to other liquids or drinks, making the drug especially dangerous for those who may not realize it has been added to their drink. In relation to this, GHB has been associated with instances of “date rape,” in the same way as Rohypnol.
Dangerous Effects of GHB and Rohypnol
GHB and Rohypnol both are known to be addictive substances which produce their own symptoms of withdrawal. In addition, the following long- and short-term effects of the drugs have been reported.
GHB
- Seizures
- Trouble breathing
- Anxiety
- Tremors
- Excessive sweating
- Sleeplessness/insomnia
- Nausea/vomiting
- Loss of consciousness
Rohypnol
The effects of Rohypnol can be seen within 20-30 minutes of taking the drug and may last up to 12 hours afterward.
- Memory loss/amnesia
- Impaired judgment
- Seizures
- Psychological dependency
- Respiratory depression
- Death (especially if mixed with other drugs/alcohol)
- Drunkenness
LOWER YOUR RISK OF DATE RAPE
GHB and Rohypnol are both linked to cases of date rape in the United States. Take the time to understand what you can do to lower your risk of exposure to these dangerous drugs, and pass on this vital information to youth and adults close to you. Because of the near undetectability of these substances, they can be added even to water without the consumer noticing until it is much too late.
- Hold onto your beverage at all times.
- Avoid drinking from previously opened containers or punch bowls.
- When at parties, go with someone and watch out for each other—look for signs of heavy or sudden drunken behavior, extreme tiredness/relaxation or other oddities.