Date Rape Drugs and Protection from Them

Rape drugs are substances that facilitate sexual assault, making a victim vulnerable. Common types of them are Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), Rohypnol or Flunitrazepam, Ketamine, and alcohol. The mentioned medications can be used together with alcohol which boosts their effect. GHB makes an individual sleepy and weak, slowing heartbeat and breathing. Rohypnol causes a relaxing effect, leading to difficulties with muscle control, amnesia, and loss of consciousness. Ketamine makes a victim hallucinate, leads to vomiting, high blood pressure, seizures, and even a coma. Alcohol causes a relaxing effect and leads to losing control over emotions. In general, rape drugs make an individual confused, enabling an offender to commit sexual assault and conceal the evidence.

If individual suspects that they were intentionally drugged in order to commit sexual assault, several steps should be followed. Rape drugs are known for their ability to leave a body rapidly within 12 to 72 hours. Therefore, to preserve evidence that is necessary to prove the crime, it is advisable to get to a hospital immediately. If it is not possible, a victim’s urine should be saved in a clean container and put in the refrigerator to prevent it from decomposition. The National Sexual Assault Hotline should be called, and their instructions followed. This organization will help a victim find an appropriate medical center, where he or she will be provided with a sexual assault forensic exam and have their blood and urine tested for substances. As a result, the evidence will be obtained, and an individual will have initial support.