What is Rohypnol?
Rohypnol, the trade name of flunitrazepam, is a benziodiazapine agonist drug with sedative effects. It is available by prescription to treat insomnia or for certain psychiatric treatment in some foreign countries, or under very limited conditions in the United States. It is generally taken orally, but may also be smoked or snorted. Common slang names include roofies, rufies, and roches.

What are the effects of Rohypnol?
The drug has profound sedative effects, slowing reactions and coordination, causing amnesia, relaxing muscles, and causing sleep. Sedation lasts for up to eight hours.

What are the short-term risks of Rohypnol?
Drowsiness, memory impairment, dizziness, and loss of coordination may occur. These effects are increased greatly when alcohol is consumed at the same time. Reactions such as restlessness, agitation, irritability, and aggressiveness can occur. Fatal overdose can result if used with another depressant, such as alcohol. Rohypnol is also given to others as a “date rape” drug. This drug is often added to a person’s drink without his/her knowledge, causing loss of inhibitions, grogginess, unconsciousness, and loss of memory. The effects of this drug make a person more vulnerable to rape.

What are the long-term risks of Rohypnol?
Use of the drug can lead to physical and psychological dependence. The risk of this increases with larger doses and longer use. Withdrawal symptoms from Rohypnol can include a feeling of skin crawling, sensitivity to sound and light, psychotic episodes, and can include seizures.

How common is Rohypnol use?
It is most common in the southern states of the U.S., particularly along the border of Mexico. Use of this drug has increased since 1993. It is used by a wide range of groups, including gangs, teenagers, college students, and young adults outside college.

Legal Information
Rohypnol is a Schedule 1 controlled substance in Michigan. Use, possession, and delivery of this drug are illegal. Penalties include fines and imprisonment.
 
Sexual assault is a felony carrying penalties up to life in prison. It is also a federal offense to administer someone a controlled substance for sexual assault or other crimes of violence.

Giving someone a drug resulting in injury or death may be considered manslaughter or murder.

<Back