What are GHB and Rohypnol?
GHB, or Gamma Hydroxy Butyrate, is a central nervous system depressant. Because very
small amounts of GHB are found in the human body, GHB is often billed as a “natural”
supplement, or as an anabolic steroid that helps build muscle mass (this claim was never
proven). In actuality, GHB is made from a substance called GBL (which, when ingested,
turns into GHB in the body and has the same effects). GBL is a solvent found in nail polish
and floor cleaning products. BD (1,4 butanediol) also converts to GHB in the body. It is
illegal to manufacture or distribute any of these three substances for human consumption.
Rohypnol is the brand name for flunitrazepam, and it is also a central nervous system
depressant. It is in the same drug family as Valium, Halcyon, and Xanax, but is ten times as
strong. Rohypnol is produced by Hoffman-LaRoche, Inc. in both Europe and Latin America
as a sleep aid, but it is illegal in the United States.
What are the street names?
GHB is also known as “G,” Georgia Home Boy, Gamma-OH, Liquid Ecstasy, Liquid E, Liquid
X (GHB is not ecstasy), GBH or Grievous Bodily Harm (from the common misabbreviation),
Organic Quaalude, Scoop
GBL and BD are often marketed under the names Blue Nitro, Thunder Nectar, Revivarant,
Renewtrient, Revitalize Plus, SomatoPro, Invigorate, Firewater, and Verv
Rohypnol is also called roofies, roachies, rophies, roofenol, roche (pronounced roe-shay),
La Rocha, rope, R-2, circles, Mexican valium, rib, and the Forget Pill.
How are they taken?
GHB can be produced as a clear liquid (which has a salty taste but no smell), a white
powder, or a tablet or capsule. It is most commonly used as a liquid – which is packaged in a
small, clear, plastic bottle – and taken orally by the capful, but powder use is on the rise
(which is typically dissolved into a beverage).
Rohypnol comes as a pill, in 1 and 2 milligram doses, that is taken orally, or dissolved in a
liquid. The tablets are white and have a line across one side, and a number “1″ or “2″ inside
a circle with the name “Roche” above it on the other. It is frequently used in combination
with alcohol, and sometimes with other drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, and heroin (to
either accentuate or help the user come down from the typical high of these drugs).
Both GHB and Rohypnol are inexpensive, which has made them increasingly popular at
raves and with younger users.
Date rape:
When mixed with any liquid, including sodas, water or alcohol, the tablet dissolves instantly, with no taste. It is colorless and odorless, and is virtually undetectable after dissolving. Upon consumption, the drug takes effect within 20 – 30 minutes.
It seems to have a synergistic effect when used in conjunction with alcohol. This combination produces disinhibition and amnesia. Because of the side effect of blackouts, Rohypnol has been used by rapists and in date rape situations. Rohypnol has no smell or taste when mixed in a drink, making it extremely easy for a woman to be put in a dangerous situation. And because the drug clouds your memory, such cases are hard to prosecute since the victims rarely remember any details of the crime.
Protecting Yourself From the “Date Rape” Drug:
Rohypnol is not the only drug used in cases of violence against women. GHB (gamma-hydroxybutrate) has also been associated with sexual assault in cites throughout the country. Common names include, “liquid ecstasy,” “somatomax,” “scoop,” or “grievous bodily harm.”
To protect yourself from becoming a victim, be aware and stay alert:
- Be wary about accepting drinks from anyone you don’t know well or long enough to trust.
- If you are accepting a drink, make sure it’s from an unopened container and that you open it yourself.
- Don’t put your drink down and leave it unattended, even to go to the restroom.
- Notify other females you know about the effects of this dangerous drug.
(Source: www.acde.org, www.womenshealth.about.com)
