| 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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