What are the Effects of Rohypnol?

Rohypnol is a brand name for a drug called the date rape drug, or roofie. Rohypnol is illegal in the United States but is used in other countries under the generic name flunitrazepam for insomnia. Rohypnol is in the class of benzodiazepines, along with Xanax and Valium. These drugs act on the central nervous system and produce a sedative effect. The effects of Rhypnol come on very quickly, and just one dose will last up to 12 hours. All signs of being roofied will be undetectable in about 72 hours.

Being Roofied

Rohypnol is an oval green pill that can be swallowed whole, crushed and snorted, or easily dissolved in a drink. Rohypnol leaves behind no taste or smell. Previous to 1997, the pills were white and easily blended into drinks with no sign at all of tampering. Often this drug is used to target others for sexual assault or “date rape” and is referred to as being “roofied”.

From 1997 forward, the manufacturer changed the color to the current olive green with a core of blue in the middle so that when crushed it was more difficult to hide in light-colored drinks. Keep reading below for some of the side effects of Rohypnol you should know.

  • You are excessively “drunk” after having little to no alcohol.
  • Sudden exhaustion to the point of passing out.
  • Muscle fatigue and paralysis.
  • Brain fog for no apparent reason. Unable to think clearly.
  • Lapses in memory. No recollection of prior events.
  • Waking up confused and disoriented.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Headache and sensitivity to light.

If you suspect that you are the victim of being roofied, seek immediate medical attention. Getting help is imperative.

Intentional Use

According to The Department of Justice/Drug Enforcement Administration, Rohypnol is more than just a date rape drug. It can also be abused to get high by intentional users. Users report euphoria and experiencing decreased inhibitions in combination with impaired judgment to feel “high”. Often this drug is used in conjunction with alcohol to exaggerate the effects. The use of Rohypnol is commonly combined with multiple drugs when abused. Cocaine users are known to use Rohypnol and other benzodiazepines to mitigate the effects of cocaine benders by using it to relieve agitation.

Addiction & Overdose

Like any benzodiazepine, Rohypnol is an addictive substance, and simply stopping all at once is not recommended. Tapering the dose of Rohypnol gradually with a weaning schedule is the safest route. Withdrawal symptoms include severe muscle pain, extreme anxiety, seizures, convulsions, and death. The best way to detox is to call a professional rehab center or hospital for detox therapy and medical support. Most programs are inpatient, as symptoms can persist for months. Combining a benzodiazepine such as Rohypnol with other central nervous system depressants drugs such as heroin or alcohol can suppress your nervous system to the point of death.

Be Vigilant

Be sure to be on the lookout for suspicious activity around you when you go out. Never leave your drink unattended. Always go to clubs with a friend or use the buddy system. At parties, do not drink from punch bowls or other open containers. Watch the bartender pour your drink or open your bottle. Do not accept drinks from strangers. Better safe, than sorry.