Rohypnol:A Common Date Rape Drug

What is Rohypnol?

Rohypnol (Flunitrazepam) is a type of drug which is illegal in the United States and Canada. This drug was at one time used as a sleeping aid in therapy sessions. It is still sold in other countries throughout the world as temporary treatment for insomnia. This type of benzodiazepine is relatively inexpensive and works as a central nervous system depressant. Drug rehab at a drug treatment center is offered for those addicted to rohypnol and has been proven effective in providing complete rehabilitation.

This drug typically comes in the form of round, white pills. It is odorless, colorless and tasteless. These small pills are often taken with alcohol as rohypnol increases alcohol’s effects. Rohypnol is most commonly known as the “date-rape drug” and is often used at nightclubs or raves. A primary reason rohypnol is used in date-rape is because its use often results in anterograde amnesia. This form of amnesia causes memory loss during the time a person is under the drug’s influence. Due to this and many other reasons, treatment for drug abuse at an inpatient drug treatment center is often recommended.

How is Rohypnol Used?

This drug is typically taken as a pill. It can also be dissolved in drinks and in rare cases snorted. Some people use this drug to enhance the effects of other drugs or to mellow out the effects of cocaine use. One dose of rohypnol lasts approximately 8 to 12 hours. It takes effect in approximately 10 to 30 minutes.

Signs & Symptoms of Rohypnol

Popular symptoms of rohypnol use include:

  • Mood swings
  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Decrease in blood pressure
  • Feeling as if one were drunk
  • Headaches
  • Lowering of one’s inhibitions
  • Vision problems
  • Confused feelings
  • Increased risk of sexual assault
  • Dizziness
  • Inability to speak and walk properly
  • Unconsciousness
  • Relaxed feeling in the body
  • Sleepiness

Effects of Rohypnol

This drug can be very addicting, resulting in physical and psychological dependence. Due to the strong addictive nature of rohypnol, California drug treatment or drug rehab at a variety of other drug treatment facilities is offered to provide relief from the hold of this drug on one’s life. Effects of its use may include:

  • Coma
  • Decreased rate of breathing and heart rate
  • Seizures
  • School and work complications
  • Addiction
  • Memory loss
  • Relationship problems
  • Death

Withdrawal effects of this drug can be very dangerous and can occur as long as two weeks after stopping use of this drug. Symptoms include:

  • Insomnia
  • Hallucinations
  • Anxiety
  • Tremors
  • Seizures
  • Numb feelings
  • Headaches
  • Sweating
  • Anger

Disclaimer


This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be a substitute for medical advice. We understand that everyone’s situation is unique, and this content is to provide an overall understanding of substance use disorders. These disorders are very complex, and this post does not take into account the unique circumstances for every individual. For specific questions about your health needs or that of a loved one, seek the help of a healthcare professional.