ROHYPNOL (Roofies)

What is it?

Rohypnol is colorless, odorless drug with a slightly bitter taste, which dissolves quickly into drinks and induces amnesia (loss of memory). This drug is sometimes used in college age crowds and bars (e.g. fraternity houses) to make women vulnerable to rape. In about 10 minutes, it creates a drunk-like effect that last about eight (8) hours. It enhances the effects of alcohol, causing loss of inhibition, extreme sleepiness, relaxation, and perhaps, worst of all for its victims - amnesia. Rohypnol is effective in any drink, including water. The drug works its way out of the human system usually within 24 hours.

ROHYPNOL IS AN ILLEGAL DRUG.

Rohypnol is a pre-operative illegal drug in the United States. In some countries it is used as pre-op anesthesia for surgery. It is a small, white pill with a "+" on one side. In mid October, 1996, President Clinton signed a law making use of Rohypnol a federal drug offense.

Though only having been illegally present in the United States in any quantity for less than a year, this drug has already shown up in communities and on college campuses, particularly in the South and on the East Coast. Several rape convictions have already resulted. Many more rapes using Rohypnol are presently under investigation.

AWARENESS IS YOUR BEST DEFENSE!!

Here are a few suggestions for staying aware and alert:

Be wary about accepting drinks from anyone you don't know well or long enough to trust. If you are accepting a drink, make sure it's from an unopened container and that you open it yourself. Don't put your drink down and leave it unattended. Notify other females you know about the effects of this dangerous drug. If you think that you have been a victim, notify the authorities immediately!!!

And some additional thoughts for men:

Women are our partners, sisters, mothers, cousins, and friends. We need to join with them in making life safe and happy for all of us. Let your female friends know about the devastating potential this drug has when used by unscrupulous men on unsuspecting women to try to avoid the personal responsibility for committing sexual assault and rape.

Remember, non-consensual sex, coerced sex, sex with a partner who is under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, and is therefore not able to give consent: IS RAPE!