DATE RAPE DRUGS

Drugs such as GHB (Gamma Hydroxybutyrate, Fantasy, Liquid Ecstasy), Rohypnol (Flunitrazepam, Roofie), and Ketamine (ketamine hydrochloride) have been linked to sexual assault cases.

These drugs come in different forms, such as a liquid with no odor or color, white powder, or easily dissolved pills. Since these drugs have no color, smell, or taste, they are easily added to flavored drinks without the victim’s knowledge.

About 20 minutes after ingesting these sedative drugs, the individual experiences disinhibition, confusion, and unconsciousness. The victim becomes physically helpless and unable to refuse sex. These dangerous drugs can cause respiratory arrest and even death.

When the victim regains consciousness several hours later, she will have no recollection of the assault, due to the amnesia effects of the drugs. All traces of the drugs leave the body within 72 hours after ingestion and are not found in any routine toxicology screen or blood test.

Avoidance Strategies

Avoid being a victim of a date rape drug by using these strategies:

• Always watch your drink - do not leave it out of your sight. If you do, get another one.
• Only accept drinks from the server or bartender at a bar or club.
• Do no accept open container drinks or drinks from punch bowls at parties.
• Do not drink anything that tastes or smells strange.
• Go to an event or establishment with friends and watch out for each other. If one of them starts acting drunk after consuming only a small amount of alcohol, she may have been drugged. And leave together.
• Keep your eyes and ears open. If there is talk of date rape drugs or if friends seem "too intoxicated" for what they have taken, leave the party or club immediately.

Most importantly, if you feel dizzy, confused, or any other unexplained symptoms after consuming a drink, immediately get help by calling a friend, police, or 911.

Detecting Whether You've Been Drugged and Raped

It’s usually difficult but not impossible to detect whether you’ve been a victim of date rape drugs. While you may have no memory of sexual assault, some obvious signs include:

• Soreness or bruising in the genital or anal area
• Bruising, such as in the inner or outer thighs, wrists, forearms
• Used condoms nearby
• Traces of semen or vaginal fluids on clothes, body, or nearby furniture
• No clear memory of events during an 8 to 24 hour period with no good reason
• Sense of having hallucinations or very real dreams
• Fleeting memories of feeling or acting intoxicated despite not having any alcohol or drugs

If You Think You've Been a Victim

• Go to a hospital or police station immediately.
• Get a preliminary rape exam and with testing for date rape drugs.
• Do not bathe, douche, or change clothes before you get help. As much evidence needs to be preserved.
• Call a crisis center or a hotline to talk with a counselor. One such center is the National Domestic Violence Hotline (www.ndvh.org) at 800-799-SAFE (7233) or 800-787-3224 (TTY).

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• Books Women's self-defense books. Includes recommended books.
• Videos Women's self-defense DVDs and videos serve as excellent supplemental learning tools. Learn at your own pace in the comfort of your home.
• Training Live women's self-defense training from qualified instructors allows more personalized training, technique correction, and practice with partners.
• Information Additional websites that provide women's self-defense information.
• More Articles Read more women's self-defense articles from our library.