Facts Concerning Rohypnol

Rohypnol, also known as roofies or rope; is a powerful depressant that is both popular and legal in Mexico. This drug's harmful effects have made it illegal in the United States; however, it is still becoming popular with college students. Here are some facts regarding this narcotic:

• FACT: Rohypnol is a depressant sold as an over-the-counter sleep aid in Mexico. Due to its harmful side effects, the drug has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in this country.
• FACT: Rohypnol is 10 times more potent than Valium. It produces a highly inebriated state, during which users will often engage in activities they normally would not. Once the drug wears off, most users have little or no recollection of what transpired while under its influence.
• FACT: Rohypnol, especially when combined with other drugs such as alcohol or marijuana, can throw the body into a highly depressed state. This may lead to a coma, in which the body slows down to the point that vital functions cease and death results. Kurt Cobain’s first coma was due to Rohypnol.
• FACT: Although Rohypnol is readily soluble in liquids, it is now manufactured with an additive that alters them when it is added. Clear liquids turn blue, while darker liquids become cloudy, and a precipitate forms on the surface. Even so, universities across America are still reporting rapes that occurred after the administration of Rohypnol to unsuspecting victims. To avoid this, only consume drinks from sealed containers. Once open, don’t leave a beverage unattended.
• FACT: Surreptitiously administering any drug to a person, and then taking advantage of his/her impaired state to engage in sexual conduct, constitutes RAPE under Ohio law.
• FACT: Rohypnol (flunitrazepam) is currently a schedule IV narcotic. Possession of this drug is a third-degree misdemeanor; selling it is a fourth-degree felony.