Date Rape Drugs are used to aid in a sexual assault against someone of the opposite or same sex. The term “date rape” may be a tad misleading, as it suggests the offender is dating the victim but this is not always the case. The victim can be a complete stranger. Both men and women can be affected by these drugs; however, women are the predominant targets.
Such drugs usually carry no warning signs, so may have no colour, smell or taste, but are very powerful and extremely dangerous. If drugged, the victim can be left defenceless. They will become weak and confused and may even pass out, losing all recollection of the sexual activities they are being subjected to.
The three most popular date rape drugs are Rohypnol (also known as Roopies / Rophies, Circles, Mind Eraser or Lunch Money); Ketamine (also known as Special K, Bump, Kit-Kat or Black Hole); and GHB (also known as Cherry Meth, Liquid E / X, Energy Drink, Easy Lay or Bedtime Scoop). There are an abundance of other nick-names for these drugs in addition to those listed. Collectively, they are widely recognised as “club drugs” as this tends to be the usual venue for the offenders.
Rohypnol is produced as a pill which dissolves in liquid. The older pills are small, round and white, while newer forms are oval with a grey / green colour. Rohypnol turns clear liquids blue (some with no dye still exist) and darker drinks cloudy. These changes may go unnoticed in darker drinks and in a darkened room. The effects will be felt within half an hour and may last several hours. The victim may look and act drunk. Rohypnol can cause a blackout, loss of muscle control, dizziness and problems talking.
Ketamine comes as a white powder or liquid. The effects work very fast. The victim may be conscious and aware of what’s happening but incapable of moving. Ketamine may cause seizures, numbness, depression, aggression, high blood pressure and breathing problems.
GHB comes in multiple forms; white powder, pills or a liquid with no colour / odour. The effects will be felt within 15 minutes and may last up to four hours. It is very potent so easily overdosed. GHB can cause slow heart rate, problems breathing, problems seeing, seizures and even a coma.
All the aforementioned date rape drugs can cause nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, temporary memory loss, loss of consciousness and even death. This Christmas/New Year be sure to keep your drinks with you at all times. Don’t share / drink from punch bowls and be conscious of monitoring your drinks at all times.
By: Jan-Marie Revers @JMRevers
