Many people have worried about date rape drugs (roofies) at some point in their lives, especially those who go to clubs, parties, or raves often
Unfortunately, drugs like Rohypnol are often used to facilitate sexual assault, including committing sexual acts with someone who has not given their consent or is incoherent or unconscious. “Date rape” is a term that refers to a person forcing someone who they’re socially, romantically, or casually involved with to have sex without consent. This type of sexual assault is often facilitated through the use of date rape drugs or roofies. Date rape can happen to anyone and with anyone, regardless of where you are. As a drug rehab in Naperville, IL, that’s aware of the dangers of drug use, we wanted to share some tips on how to know if you were roofied so you can stay safe.
What Do Roofies Do?
If you’re wondering, “what does being roofied feel like?” then you should first know more about the drug itself. The term “roofied” stems from the common nickname for Rohypnol, “roofies.” Rohypnol is an intermediate-acting benzodiazepine or central nervous system (CNS) depressant. Also known by the generic name flunitrazepam, this drug is not approved for medical use in the United States. It is often used by cocaine addicts to alleviate undesirable side effects and to commit sexual assault. Rohypnol or roofies look like oblong olive green tablets that can be swallowed, crushed and snorted, or dissolved into a liquid. When Rohypnol is mixed into light-colored drinks, it makes the drinks blue.
As a CNS depressant, Rohypnol works by activating an inhibitory neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA is considered an inhibitory chemical because it reduces nerve activity in the CNS, producing side effects like sedation, muscle relaxation, reduced anxiety, reduced alertness, loss of consciousness, and memory loss. The sedative side effects of Rohypnol are what make it a common date rape drug.
Benzodiazepines like Rohypnol also pose the danger of dependence and addiction. Those who abuse these drugs for a long time usually develop a physical dependence on them, making it nearly impossible to quit on their own. Banyan Treatment Centers Chicago offers benzo addiction treatment for those who have developed a benzo use disorder and need guided care and assistance to regain their sobriety.
“Roofied” Definition and Signs of Date Rape Drugs
“Getting roofied” means you’ve been dosed with Rohypnol (flunitrazepam) or a similar drug. Because roofies are tasteless, odorless, colorless, and easily dissolvable, the most common way sexual assaulters drug victims are by putting these drugs in their drinks. In addition to Rohypnol, other common date rape drugs include Ketamine (Special K) and Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB).
If you’re concerned about being a victim of date rape, then you should know the roofied side effects and signs to stay safe. Below are some common after-effects of getting roofied and tips on how to tell if you were roofied.
Because a roofy is a depressant, you will most likely feel relaxed and overly calm if you’ve taken it. Some common signs that you’ve been roofied include:
- A sudden feeling of fogginess
- Excessive drunkenness (a major red flag if you haven’t had much to drink)
- Unusual interactions with strangers
- Gaps in memory
- Sedation
- Difficulties concentrating or staying focused
- Reduced alertness and energy
- Disorientation
- Difficulties moving or feeling paralyzed
- Loss of muscle control
- Nausea
Unfortunately, many women have suffered from sexual assault as a result of date rape drugs. Because these drugs are known for causing memory problems or gaps in memory, it’s also important to know what it feels like the day after getting roofied. Some common next day side effects of being roofied include:
- Drowsiness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Sensitivity to light (photosensitivity)
- Restlessness
- Tingling sensation
- Confusion
- Gaps in memory or inability to remember recent events
If you suspect that someone has drugged and assaulted you, call 9-1-1 and seek medical attention. Have someone you trust to take you to the emergency room. The authorities will collect any evidence. Avoid changing, bathing, urinating, washing your hands, or douching before going to the emergency room.
The side effects of Rohypnol are usually immediate and can last for over 12 hours. Because this drug produces sedation and relaxation, it’s a common drug of abuse. PHP treatment is usually required by individuals who abuse benzos like roofies to physically and psychologically recover.
How to Avoid Being Roofied
Just the mere idea of experiencing roofied effects or sexual assault is terrifying. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways you can practice date rape drug prevention and stay safe when you go out with friends or meet new people. Below are some tips on how to avoid being roofied.
- Pour your own drinks.
- Avoid open containers like punch bowls that could be spiked.
- Don’t accept drinks from other people, especially strangers.
- Always take small sips of your drink first. If it tastes funky or looks weird, don’t drink it.
- Stick with your friends.
- If you begin to feel any weird symptoms similar to the signs listed above, immediately tell your friends and ask them to take you home.
- Never leave your drink unattended.
No matter what the situation, sexual assault is not your fault. It’s common to struggle with a range of emotions after experiencing sexual assault. Talk to someone you trust about the incident or call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673). Banyan Treatment Centers Chicago also offers a mental health program that can help you recover from any mental illness that may have been caused or worsened as a result of sexual assault.
As a rehab center, we assist people who have become victims of drug addiction, as well. If you or someone you know is addicted to drugs or alcohol, we can help. Call us now at 888-280-4763 for more information about our drug treatment in Chicago.
