| There is a growing
concern on campuses across the country due to the
presence of predator drugs. This article will focus
on three drugs threatening personal safety:
- Rohypnol (Roofies, Rope, Ruffies, R2, Ruffles,
Roche, Forget-pill)
- Gamma Hydroxy Butyrate (GHB, Liquid Extacy,
Liquid X, Scoop, Easy Lay)
- Ketamine Hydrochloride ('K', Special K, Vitamin
K, Ket)
Rohypnol
It is a potent tranquilizer which produces a sedative
effect, amnesia, muscle relaxation, and slowing
of psychomotor response. The pill is distributed
in 0.5,1.0 to 2.0 milligram form (Restrictions have
been placed on the 2.0 mg form). It is colorless,
odorless, and tasteless and dissolves without leaving
any traces. It takes effect approximately 10 - 20
minutes after ingestion. Rohypnol can be added to
any liquid (effect lasting 2-8 hours) but when added
to alcohol it produces disinhibition and amnesia
(effect lasting 8 - 24 hours). Rohypnol can be detected
in the blood for 24 hours and in the urine for 48
hours. Some individuals use Rohypnol as an alcohol
extender for a rapid and dramatic high. This is
something to watch for in social settings if individuals
seem extremely intoxicated after consuming only
a small amount of alcohol. Hoffman-La Roche is working
on changing the formula so trace particles or a
color would appear when Rohypnol is dissolved.
Street Names: Roofies, Rope, Ruffies, R2, Ruffles,
Roche, Forget-pill.
GHB
It is an odorless, colorless, liquid depressant
with anesthetic qualities. It is also used as an
amino acid by bodybuilders. GHB is usually distributed
as a sodium salt in powder or tablet form commonly
dissolved in water. This drug gives a feeling of
relaxation, tranquillity, sensuality, and loss off
inhibitions (especially for women). The drug takes
effect 10 - 15 minutes after ingestion and lasts
2 - 3 hours unless combined with alcohol, where
effect may last 20 - 30 hours. Large doses can induce
sudden sleep within 5 - 10 minutes.
Street Names: Liquid Extacy, Liquid X, Scoop, Easy
Lay.
Ketamine
It is a new drug that has been added to the predator
drug category. It is a powerful anesthetic used
as an animal tranquilizer. It is available in liquid,
powder or pill form. Ketamine causes hallucinations,
amnesia and dissociation (a feeling where the mind
seems separated from the body) making it attractive
for a potential date rapist.
Street Names: 'K', Special K, Vitamin K, Ket.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF:
- Don't drink anything out of a punch bowl.
- Monitor the behavior of friends who seem more
intoxicated than the amount of alcohol would warrant.
- Never accept a drink from someone you don't
know and trust.
- If you hear someone "kidding" about
date rape drugs, pay attention. That should be
a warning to leave that party or individual.
If a rape victim suspects he/she has been drugged,
he/she should request a drug screen. New laws have
been put into effect in Illinois, and by the Federal
government to address the date rape drug issue.
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