Date Rape and Club drugs
- Date Rape Drugs
- Club Drugs
"Date rape drugs" is a term given to any drug that is used for the purpose of getting someone intoxicated to the point where forced or non-consensual sexual activity can take place more easily or with little resistance.
Generally, illegal or pharmaceutical drugs such as rohypnol, GHB and ketamine are thought of as date rape drugs, however far more unwanted sexual encounters take place when one or both parties are under the influence of alcohol than with prescription or street drugs. Rohypnol is a pharmaceutical drug that can be prescribed as a sleep aid or can be purchased on the street. Often it comes in the form of a white pill. When mixed with a drink, rohypnol is colourless, tasteless and odourless, which makes it especially easy to go undetected when slipped into a beverage. Once ingested, rohypnol can cause drowsiness, loss of muscle control, slurred speech and unconsciousness. One clue that someone has ingested rohypnol is if they look extremely intoxicated after having had very little to drink. In this state, it is much easier to push unwanted sexual advances on the drugged person. After the drug has worn off, rohypnol often leaves people with little or no memory of what has happened to them while on the drug. This can be extremely frightening for someone who thinks they may have been assaulted.
Note: Manufacturers of pharmaceutical rohypnol have started to make a form of the drug that creates blue flakes when added to liquid. This can be one way to know if your drink has been spiked!
GHB (also known as liquid E): Due to its extremely narrow dosing range, GHB can be used both as a recreational and date rape drug. At low doses, GHB causes pleasant relaxation and slight euphoria. At higher doses, GHB can cause extreme fatigue and unconsciousness. However, the difference between a high and low dose can be extremely difficult to measure, so if you choose to use GHB as a recreational drug, be careful (see "links" section). GHB can taste slightly salty, so if your drink tastes funny to you, throw it away!
Because GHB is a relaxant and a "downer", it can be used as a method for facilitating unwanted or unaccepted sexual advances. This is dangerous not only because of the potential for sexual assault, but because very high doses of GHB, or GHB used in conjunction with other depressants can cause very serious and potentially fatal reactions. When used in small doses, GHB generally does not produce very many "morning after" effects, although some people may feel lethargic, chilly or shakey.
Ketamine (Special K, K, etc): Originally and still used as a veterinary anaesthetic, ketamine comes in a white powder and a liquid that can be snorted, injected or swallowed. It produces a numbness and paralysis, and can also (depending on dose) make you feel like you're out of your own body. High doses can lead to unconsciousness and can leave the user open to assault.
How do I protect myself from date rape drugs?
The best way to protect yourself from the potential of finding yourself in an unwanted sexual scenario is to be aware of yourself, your drinks and your surroundings. Some simple rules include:
- Always party with friends: make sure to keep close tabs on those who you are with: don't let friends leave with strangers or people you don't feel comfortable with! It is a good idea to have one friend stay sober for the evening to keep an eye out for those who choose to drink.
- Know where your drink is coming from: watch your drink being poured by a professional bar staff or pour your drink yourself.
- Watch your drink: keep your drink with you and don't leave it unattended. Give your drink to a friend to hold if you are going outside or to the bathroom.
- If you feel like you are overly intoxicated or have lost control of yourself tell someone you trust. Tell them to stay with you until you feel better. If you are with someone who is out of control, do not leave them alone.
- Plan to go home as a group or with someone you trust. Don't plan to get home by yourself.
While these rules are not infallible, they will help make any partying situation safer and more in your control.
Club drugs are drugs that are generally used recreationally in partying situations such as raves, clubs, bars, big house parties, etc. The term "club drugs" usually refer to Ecstasy, GHB, Cocaine, Crystal Meth and Ketamine, although other drugs may be included in this category.
Ecstasy (E or MDMA): Ecstasy, found usually in pill form, causes a rush of endorphins (the "feel good" chemicals in the brain) to be released, causing a feeling of happiness and euphoria. Risks of ecstasy use include dehydration (especially in club or party situation where it is hot and crowded) and taking too much ecstasy. Signs of an ecstasy overdose include eye rolling, chest pain and seizure.
GHB (also known as liquid E): Due to its extremely narrow dosing range, GHB can be used both as a recreational and date rape drug. At low doses, GHB causes pleasant relaxation and slight euphoria. At higher doses, GHB can cause extreme fatigue and unconsciousness. However, the difference between a high and low dose can be extremely difficult to measure, so if you choose to use GHB as a recreational drug, be careful (see "links" section). GHB can taste slightly salty, so if your drink tastes funny to you, throw it away!
Because GHB is a relaxant and a "downer", it can be used as a method for facilitating unwanted or unaccepted sexual advances. This is dangerous not only because of the potential for sexual assault, but because very high doses of GHB, or GHB used in conjunction with other depressants can cause very serious and potentially fatal reactions. When used in small doses, GHB generally does not produce very many "morning after" effects, although some people may feel lethargic, chilly or shakey.
Cocaine (Coke, blow, snow, etc.): Cocaine is a stimulant of the central nervous system. It comes in a powder that can be crushed and snorted, smoked or injected. It can make you feel in charge, self-confident and alert. Cocaine highs are short: a few minutes to a few hours. Risks associated with coke use range from overdose (too much coke at one time) to addiction. Someone experiencing a coke overdose may be red in the face, have difficulty breathing, be hot to the touch, but not sweaty, and may have a seizure.
Crystal Meth (glass, ice etc): Crystal Meth is a type of amphetamine, which means that it is a stimulant that causes huge rushes of energy and euphoria. Crystal meth comes in a powder form that can snorted. Crystal meth highs last longer than coke highs - several hours at a time. Risks associated with crystal meth use range from overdose (too much crystal meth at one time) to injuries incurred while high drug to crystal meth addiction. Someone experiencing a coke overdose may be red in the face, have difficulty breathing, be hot to the touch, but not sweaty, and may have a seizure.
Ketamine (Special K, K, etc): Originally and still used as a veterinary anaesthetic, ketamine comes in a white powder and a liquid that can be snorted, injected or swallowed. It produces a numbness and paralysis, and can also (depending on dose) make you feel like you're out of your own body. High doses can lead to unconsciousness and can leave the user open to assault.
What do I do if I think someone has overdosed?
Do not leave the person unattended.
If you feel like someone you're with is overdosing on anything (alcohol included) call for help (911) immediately. It is better to be over-reactive than under-reactive, even if you think your friend might be mad at you later. Remember: paramedics are there to save lives and help people who are ill, not to bust drug users.
If the person should fall unconscious, put them in the recovery position (on their side, so they cannot choke on their own vomit).
If the person should stop breathing, begin CPR or rescue breathing if you know how, or find someone who does. Phone 911 and remain on the line with the dispatcher who will give you guidance.
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