Rohypnol is benzodiazepine that is used for insomnia as well as various surgical procedures. It helps to induce anesthesia and does everything from sedate the body to prevent it from convulsing. This is a sedative that can be up to 10x more powerful than Valium. It can even last for more than twelve hours after it's given. After only 15-20 minutes the effects of this will start to take place.
The effects of this drug will vary based on the person who is using it and how much is taken. It can become addictive for individuals who take more than the normal dosage they were directed to.
When a person is addicted to this, much like any other drug, they will develop a tolerance to it. This will result in being able to take more of it in order to achieve the same effects. Overdoses do happen quite often with this drug, mostly by individuals who have purchased it on the black market.
Most people know Rohypnol because of its popularity on the street. Unfortunately, this is because it's associated with rape and commonly called the "date rape drug". When slipped into a drink, this can easily make the person who consumed it dizzy, unable to focus and have a willingness to do things they normally wouldn't. Most times this leads to rape where the victim often isn't able to remember what happened to them because of the anesthesia effects this drug has.
Although this is the most common street name, there are many others out there. It's important that all people know these for their own safety. If someone were to have these they could potentially be someone who is dangerous to associate with. The other common street names include:
If someone says that they are "roached out" or "taking roaches" that also means that they are currently under the influence of Rohypnol. It can also be easy to identify someone based on how they are acting. Often time someone will be lethargic, acting like they are going to go to sleep or actually pass out when they are in a public place. Since this drug has become so popular for rapes in bars, there are a number of products that have been made to test drinks for safety.
If someone does have an addiction to taking this drug and needs help, there are many different options. Most people are able to quit on their own, but this can be dangerous for anyone that was taking large dosages. Some of the more dangerous side effects of withdrawal include:
Individuals who have a low dependency may be able to quit on their own, but seeking professional help is always the best choice. Doctors can provide a lot of assistance, as can drug rehab centers located throughout the country. These are voluntary centers were users can get all the help that they need. Not only will they be able to work with doctors, they will also be able to quit drugs without feeling the side effects as much as they would if they were quitting cold turkey.
There is a lot of discomfort associated with quitting Rohypnol, and many people find that rehab centers provide them with the tools they need to cope. After treatment has been completed, individuals who were addicted will need to seek regular support. For some this means going to drug support groups once or even twice per day. This can help create friendships so when temptations come along they don't end up with a relapse. This is a drug that is easy to find so temptation can be very difficult for most users to overcome if they don't have any help.
Use of this drug can also lead to taking more hardcore drugs that can cause even more damage. Unfortunately, this can also lead to overdose when combined with even small amounts of other drugs. Getting help is extremely important, even for individuals who don't think they have a problem.