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GHB and Rohypnol

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Prevalence and risk: Two drugs, GHB and Rohypnol, have gained media exposure over the past few years. Based on experience in local emergency rooms, the use of these drugs is a growing problem. Nevertheless, the use of GHB and Rohypnol is not widespread. According to the 2007 UM Student Life Survey, GHB and Rohypnol are rarely used recreationally on this campus.

Both drugs have been linked with incidents of rape across the country; hence these substances are often referred to as "rape" drugs. (Note: alcohol remains the most common "rape" drug.) When these drugs are mixed with alcohol, the combination can cause death.

GHB (gamma hydroxy butyrate (also known as liquid x, liquid ecstasy, grievous bodily harm) is a powerful central nervous system depressant/hypnotic. Legal formulations are prescribed for the treatment of cataplexy in adult patients with narcolepsy. Even when prescribed it should be used with caution because GHB can be habit forming. Illicitly, GHB comes in liquid or powder form. It is colorless with a salty and/or unpleasant taste.

What you should know:

  • It's made from industrial chemicals, such as lye and degreaser.
  • It won't build muscle or reduce your body fat, as is sometimes claimed.
  • It's made by "basement chemists" so you never know exactly what it contains, how large the dose or how you will react.
  • It's addictive.
  • Overdoses of GHB alone can kill you.
  • Mixing GHB with alcohol is very dangerous, increasing the chance of blackouts, seizures and death.

What happens: Intoxication and sedation occur within 20 minutes after ingestion, lasting for a few hours. There can be memory loss, confusion, vomiting, visual changes, coma, respiratory arrest and death.

Rohypnol (flunitrazepam, also known as roche, roofies, ruffles, Mexican valium, R-2, rib) is a benzodiazepine, similar to Valium, but ten times more powerful in its sedative effects. It comes in white tablets with Roche (the manufacturer's name) imprinted above the number 1 or 2 (reflecting 1 or 2 mg. dosage). It has never been sold legally in the United States.

What you should know:

  • Rohypnol is odorless and tasteless when dissolved into any kind of drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic).
  • It's addictive.
  • When combined with alcohol, use of Rohypnol can lead to respiratory depression and death.

What happens: Intoxication and sedation occur 20-30 minutes after ingestion, lasting 8-12 hours, with a hangover effect for up to three days. When used in combination with alcohol, individuals may experience intense intoxication at low doses. In addition, blackouts are common. Other side effects include slurred speech, little or no coordination, bloodshot eyes, dizziness and confusion.

The law: Michigan has classified GHB and Rohypnol as Schedule I controlled substances (like heroin). The penalties for use, possession and delivery are stiff and include fines and imprisonment. Sexual assault is a felony carrying penalties up to life in prison. Additionally, it is a federal offense to give someone a controlled substance with the intent to commit a sexual assault or other violent crime.

Protect yourself: The best way to protect yourself is to avoid taking GHB or Rohypnol or any other drug not prescribed by a clinician or not used as intended by a clinician. While GHB and Rohypnol are most often taken voluntarily, some sexual predators will use these on potential victims by putting it into alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Precautions include:

  • Watch the bartender make your drink or take drinks only from wait-staff.
  • Do not accept drinks from open containers (punch bowls, etc.).
  • Hold on to your drink -- don't set it down.
  • If you leave your drink unattended, pour it out.

In an emergency: If you think a friend is showing extreme effects of alcohol without having had that much to drink, you should suspect GHB or Rohypnol or some other drug. Call 911 if the person is severely sedated, cannot be awakened, is incoherent or is having seizures. This could save your friend's life.

Testing: Rohypnol in moderately high doses (2 mg. or more) is traceable in urine up to 72 hours after ingestion. GHB is flushed from the body more quickly. The first urine after ingestion will wash it away. If you suspect being drugged, avoid urination or save urine (refrigerate or freeze it) and go to a hospital emergency room to get tested.

For more information, see Resources for Alcohol and Other Drugs.