“Roofies” is commonly associated with “date rape” drugs, but it refers explicitly to Rohypnol, also known as flunitrazepam. Benzodiazepine drugs, such as flunitrazepam, are sedative-hypnotic drugs, according to Dr. Brenna Farmer. Gamma-hydroxybutyrate, known as GHB, is another type of “roofie.”
Roofies are tasteless, odorless, and dissolve clear in liquid, making it difficult to detect if someone secretly added one to your beverage. Nevertheless, in the 1990s, the drug maker changed the white pill to olive green with a blue core to address “concerns about its use in sexual assaults.”
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Is There Any Sign That You’ve Been Given A Roofie?
If you or someone you know gets roofied, it’s essential to know the signs and symptoms. Farmer says roofies have symptoms similar to alcohol intoxication or extreme alcohol intoxication. Symptoms include slurred speech, unsteadiness when walking, and lethargy or comatose.
How Does Taking Roofies Affect Your Body?
Benzodiazepines, like roofies, are central nervous system depressants. Dr. Phillip Kadaj, the internal medicine specialist at MyMichigan Health, says they commonly cause decreased anxiety, slurred speech, and loss of coordination and balance. Their side effects can range from mild to severe.
What Makes Roofies So Dangerous?
Farmer believes that not protecting yourself is the greatest danger. People who use Roofies are more vulnerable to sexual assault by another individual since they are sedated and incapacitated. Anterograde amnesia is arguably one of the most problematic side effects of roofies when combined with alcohol, according to the DOJ.
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What Can You Do To Protect Yourself From Roofies?
Experts advise staying alert and not leaving your drink unattended at parties and bars. Don’t drink anything you don’t know or didn’t watch being made. Ask the bar for a plastic cover, or bring your own to protect your drink.
How Should You React If You Are Roofied?
Experts recommend going to the nearest emergency room if you think you or a friend have been roofied. Farmer said, “The medical team will evaluate, including obtaining a history of events, medical history, and physical examination.”