Rohypnol

Nicknames:

Rophies, ropies, ruffies, roche, R-2, Mexican Valium, rib and rope.

What is it used for?

Rohypnol is a legitimate drug used in the short-term treatment of sleeping disorders. It has also begun to be used in drug rape because it is colourless, odourless and tasteless - ideal for spiking drinks without anyone realizing! Because of this problem, the company that manufactured the drug revised its formula in January 1998 to make it easier to detect. It now contains a blue dye that will appear when it's added to any drink, and it's slower to dissolve.

Where does it come from?

It can only be prescribed privately in the UK.

How is the drug used?

Ravers have been known to use the drug because of its euphoric and relaxing effects. The effects last for about eight hours. According to Ravesafe, a drugs information service, it's used to ease the come down from a cocaine or crack binge. However it's the drug's use in drug rape cases that has led to its reputation, as the drug is used to overcome victims, in order to sexually abuse them. See rape & assault for more information.

What are the effects of the drug?

When combined with alcohol, Rohypnol can cause sedation or euphoria in approximately 20 to 30 minutes. It can also cause the person to suffer memory loss.

Will I be able to tell that my drinks been spiked?

Unless you spotted the drug immediately in the drink, you won't know if your drink has been spiked. As amnesia can set in within 10 minutes, with other side effects kicking in soon after. Someone who is unaware that they've taken the drug is unlikely to remember what happened while they were under the influence. Obviously this is the greatest worry. See rape & assault for more information.

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Reproduced with kind permission of NHS Direct Wales - www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk/theroom