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GHB / Rohypnol
Rohypnol, or flunitrazepam, is a benzodiazapine (tranquilizer) similar to Valium but approximately 10 times more potent. It is an addictive drug. Rohypnol cannot legally be produced or sold in the United States, but is available by prescription in Europe and Latin America. It arrives into the United States through smuggling operations, often by mail, and is apparently most common in South Florida, Texas, and Southern California at this time. Rohypnol can be abused either for it's intoxicating, sedative, euphoria-producing properties, or for it's release of growth hormones, which can build muscles. Recently, it has been identified as a "date rape" drug used to anaesthetize victims. It can be added to food or drink with little possibility of detection. Street names for Rohypnol include roofies, roopies, rope, ropies, R2, or roaches.
Another drug, known as GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate), also has a reputation as a "date rape" drug. It is a particularly dangerous drug because it depresses breathing and is easily overdosed. GHB is commonly used among adolescents and young adults and has been reported primarily in New York, Detroit, Miami, Phoenix, Honolulu, and Atlanta. It is available as a clear liquid that looks like water or in white powder, tablet, or capsule form. Street names for GHB include G, Liquid Ecstacy, somatomax, scoop, Georgia Home Boy, and Grievous Bodily Harm.
Methods of Use
Rohypnol and GBH can be taken by mouth in a clear liquid, white powder, or capsule form. They are often used in combination with other drugs or alcohol, making them even more dangerous.
Effects on the Central Nervous System
Like the other benzodiazepines, both drugs are depressants of the central nervous system. And like other benzodiazapines, they have five main effects: hypnotic (causing sleepiness), anxiolytic (reducing anxiety), anti-seizure (reducing seizures and convulsions), muscle relaxant, and amnesic (disrupting memory).
Intoxication
Although intended for their depressant and calming effects, these drugs cause some people to become excitable and aggressive. Other effects include:
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Slurred speech
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Impaired judgment
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Decreased motor coordination
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Seizures
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Confusion
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Aggression and excitability
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Withdrawal
When taken regularly, Rohypnol and GBH can cause withdrawal symptoms, which may include hallucinations, delirium, convulsions, shock, derealization, and cardiovascular distress. As with benzodiazapines, withdrawal from Rohypnol or GBH should be undertaken gradually and with medical supervision. Symptoms may last a week or longer. In some areas, this drug is used to relieve withdrawal symptoms from other drugs.
Warning Signs
A person who is abusing Rohypnol or GHB may:
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Appear intoxicated (slurred speech, poor coordination, swaying, and blood-shot eyes) but have no odor of alcohol
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Experience personality changes, poor judgment, and loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities
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Behave evasively or lie about activities or whereabouts
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