Perpetrators of sexual assault can use many tools to commit these acts of violence, including weapons, drugs, and alcohol. One method perpetrators use to make people vulnerable to assault is through the use of date rape drugs, such as rohypnol. These drugs are very dangerous, leading to lapses in consciousness and a loss of control over your body.
What Are the Different Types of Date Rape Drugs?
Date rape drugs are substances that make sexual assault easier to accomplish, from weakening a person to the point where he or she cannot fight back to causing someone to lose consciousness or become more compliant. These dangerous substances can come in a number of forms.
- Rohypnol and other benzodiazepines, such as Xanax or Klonopin, are the most commonly known date rape drugs. Rohypnol, in particular, causes victims to feel relaxed, dizzy, and weak. These drugs may also induce a lack of consciousness.
- Ketamine is an anesthetic that also causes feelings of relaxation, confusion, or a loss of consciousness. This drug may also cause memory loss, and may be fatal in large doses.
- Alcohol is the most readily available date rape drug, and perpetrators often use alcohol as a tool to lower a victim’s inhibitions and make him or her less aware of his or her surroundings or actions. Many sexual assaults occur when alcohol is involved.
Date Rape Drug Signs and Symptoms
It can be difficult to distinguish between alcohol intoxication and the effects of another date rape drug. Look for the following signs and symptoms if you believe you may have consumed a date rape drug.
- Loss of consciousness
- Blacking out, or not being able to remember anything after drinking
- Feelings of confusion and disorientation
- Not remembering how you ended up somewhere
- Feeling drunk, despite not drinking any alcohol
- Pain in your genitals or while urinating
- Torn clothes with no explanation
- Waking up and not being able to remember what happened the night before
While at a party, never accept a drink from another person, even if you know him or her. Keep your drink close to you and never leave your cup unattended. During these times, someone can place a date rape drug into your drink.
What to Do If You Believe You Were Drugged
If you believe you were the victim of sexual assault and the perpetrator may have used a date rape drug, seek medical attention immediately. Tell a trusted friend that you believe you may have a date rape drug in your system, go to a safe place, and call 911 to seek emergency medical care.
When you arrive at the hospital, tell the staff you may have a date rape drug in your system. Date rape drugs can disappear quickly from your bloodstream, so it is important to take a screening test as soon as possible.
The staff at the hospital you visit will run toxicology tests to try and find the drug in your system as well as collect other pieces of evidence, which you can use in a future criminal case or civil lawsuit. After seeking help, contact a sexual assault attorney with experience advocating for survivors to discuss your legal options.