BEWARE OF DATE-RAPE DRUGS

Q I’m a registered nurse who’s been “roofied” — had my drink secretly drugged — twice. My reaction, since I was already on another medication, was severe. I was just two blocks from my work but was so confused that I was lost. My friend’s boyfriend called me to locate her as we’d all got separated. He came and got me, put me in a cab, and sent me home safely. My point: When you unwillingly take drugs that are unknown to you, there’s a huge issue with your reaction to it. Been There

A Roofie is the street name for a small white tablet of the powerful benzodiazepine sedative and hypnotic drug named Rohypnol.

In Canada and the U.S., it’s illegal to possess, traffic, import or produce Rohypnol.

Taking precautions when out drinking (from a “Date Violence” fact sheet):

1. Watch out for your friends, and have them watch out for you.

2. Never leave your drink unattended, not even to go to the bathroom or the dance floor. Have a trusted friend watch it.

3. Never accept a drink from someone you don’t know, or don’t trust 100 per cent. Mix your own drink, get it yourself, or watch it being poured.

Rohypnol is colourless, odourless and tasteless when dissolved in any liquid.

The effects are enhanced when mixed with alcohol, causing sedation, loss of inhibitions, relaxation, blackouts and amnesia.

It can also cause respiratory depression, coma and even death.

The drug takes effect after 20 to 30 minutes and its effects may last eight to 12 hours.

When combined with alcohol, Rohypnol causes severe disorientation and blackouts, also typically eight to 12 hours long.

The victim may or may not appear “awake” during this time.