Guest Post: While you may have never heard of Rohypnol, chances are you've heard of “roofies” or “the date rape drug”, which are street names for the drug. However, as a woman, it's important for you to thoroughly understand the drug and what it can do to you. The following is what every woman should know about Rohypnol.
What is Rohypnol?
Rohypnol is a drug that is used to treat insomnia. However, the manufacturing and possession of the drug is prohibited in the United States and those found in possession of the drug are prosecuted the same way they would be for heroine, marijuana or any other illegal drug. There are a number of reasons teenagers and young adults may use the drug. One misconception is that it can increase or lengthen of the buzz that comes from alcohol. This means that the drug may be passed around at parties. Another more dangerous intent of the drug is for men to knock out women so they can rape them. When mixed with alcohol, Rohypnol can cause unconsciousness that lasts up to 24 hours. The drug is easy to recognize by the ROCHE that is imprinted on the tablet. If you are offered this type of drug, or see someone trying to slip it in your drink, you should never take it.
Side Effects
There's aren't a lot of side effects associated with Rohypnol, but it can lower the blood pressure, cause memory loss, dizziness, urinary retention, stomach and vision problems and drowsiness.
How to Protect Yourself
As mentioned above, Rohypnol is often used as a recreational drug and may be offered to you. You should not under any means take this drug. However, most of the time, this drug is slipped to females in their drink. It is important to always keep an eye on your drink and never leave it unattended. You also do not want to accept opened beverages from others. Even if someone opens the drink in front of you, it can be easy to slip the pill inside. Last, but not least, there is power in numbers, which means you should make sure your friends also understand the dangers.
Whether it's called “roofies” or Rohypnol the results are the same. This is a drug that can leave you unconscious or at the very least can lower your inhibitions. In either case, you can end up being raped and may not even be able to identify the person that committed the crime.
About the Author: Wenona Lousteau is a women's health advocate with a focus on education. She highly recommends wellness and self defense courses for all of the women she counsels
