Ruffies The Date Rape Drug :: Papers

Ruffies The Date Rape Drug They’re called "roofies," "R-2s," "rib," "rope," "The Club Drug," "Mexican Valium." The clinical name is Flunitrazepam, but it’s the effect that is important. It’s called the "date rape drug" because one of its most frightening and dangerous uses is to commit sexual assault: a drug slipped into a drink without the victim’s knowledge. Roofies are tasteless, colorless, odorless, and they dissolve in liquid within seconds. When the drug is taken or ingested alone it creates a drunk-like state; when used with other drugs such as alcohol it can become a lethal mix. A year before he killed himself, rock star Kurt Cobain was in a coma and nearly died after taking Rohypnol. The effects include dizziness, confusion, stomach upset, temporary paralysis, blackout and amnesia. The drug renders its victim helpless: there is loss of control, loss of inhibitions, an inability to know what’s happening. Effects begin within a few minutes and last up to 12 hours, depending on the amount ingested. The victim goes in and out of consciousness, aware of some things, totally unaware of others. It’s the perfect agenda for sexual assault on an unwilling victim How to Protect Yourself The drug is odorless, tasteless, and colorless. You simply cannot tell if a roofie has been placed in your drink. There have been numerous reports of rapes following use of the drug by unknowing victims. Because of the potential for abuse, observe these precautions: 1. Never accept a drink from someone you don’t know and TRUST. Order sealed drinks you can open yourself. Watch the bartender make your drink and don’t use wait-people. 2. Never leave your drink unattended. ALWAYS keep your drink in your hand, not left on the bar or table. Take your drink to the rest room with you, or’ Give your drink to someone you know you can trust. If you do leave your drink unattended, order a new one. 3. Use the "buddy system": Tell your friends where you are at a party. Never leave without accounting for those you came with. Watch your friends’ drinks if they’re not alert. Have a designated driver. 4. If you hear someone in your group kidding about "date drugs," pay attention: often someone planning to use a drug jokes about it, trying to get a reaction from others. This should be a warning: leave the company of that person.