A date rape drug is any substance that is used to incapacitate or render a person unable to resist sexual assault or engage in consensual sexual activity. These drugs are often given to individuals without their knowledge or consent, typically by adding them to drinks or food. The most commonly known date rape drugs include:

Rohypnol (Flunitrazepam):

• Appearance: Rohypnol is a small, white tablet that dissolves quickly in liquid, making it easy to slip into a drink unnoticed.
• Effects: It causes sedation, drowsiness, confusion, and muscle relaxation. It can also lead to memory loss, making it difficult to recall what happened while under its influence.
• Onset and Duration: The effects of Rohypnol can be felt within 30 minutes and can last up to several hours.

Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB):

• Appearance: GHB is typically a liquid that may be odorless and colorless. It can also come in a powder or pill form.
• Effects: GHB induces relaxation, euphoria, drowsiness, and can cause amnesia. Combining it with alcohol can intensify these effects and increase the risk of overdose.
• Onset and Duration: The effects of GHB can occur within 15-30 minutes and can last for a few hours.

Ketamine:

• Appearance: Ketamine usually comes as a clear liquid or a white powder that can be dissolved in liquid. It may also be found in pill or capsule form.
• Effects: Ketamine is an anesthetic that can cause dissociation, hallucinations, confusion, and memory loss. It can immobilize a person and impair their ability to resist or remember what happened.
• Onset and Duration: The effects of ketamine can be felt within minutes when injected or snorted, or within 30-60 minutes when taken orally. The duration can last from 1-6 hours.

MDMA (Ecstasy):

• Appearance: MDMA is commonly sold as a tablet or capsule, often with various colors and logos imprinted on them.
• Effects: While MDMA is not typically classified as a date rape drug, it can still be misused in situations involving sexual assault. It produces increased sociability, heightened emotions, and a sense of euphoria. However, it can also impair judgment and increase vulnerability.
• Onset and Duration: The effects of MDMA can be felt within 30-60 minutes and can last for 3-6 hours.

Benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Valium):

• Appearance: Benzodiazepines come in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquids, often prescribed for legitimate medical purposes.
• Effects: These drugs produce sedation, relaxation, and can cause memory impairment at higher doses. Misuse or combining them with alcohol can lead to increased sedation and risk.
• Onset and Duration: The onset and duration of benzodiazepines vary depending on the specific drug but can range from minutes to hours.

How to keep safe from date rape drugs for women?

Learn about the signs and effects:

• Educate yourself about the different types of date rape drugs, their signs, and symptoms.
• Be aware of the effects these drugs can have on your mind and body.

Be cautious with your drinks:

• Avoid accepting drinks from strangers or individuals you do not trust.
• If possible, order and pick up your own drink and watch it being prepared.
• Never leave your drink unattended, even for a moment.
• If you need to use the restroom or step away, finish your drink or discard it and get a new one when you return.

Watch out for suspicious signs:

• Be vigilant for any unusual taste, color, or sediment in your drink.
• Look for changes in your physical or mental state that are disproportionate to the amount of alcohol you have consumed.
• If you suddenly feel extremely intoxicated or disoriented, seek help immediately.

Stick together:

• Go out with a group of trusted friends and agree to look out for one another.
• Stay together throughout the night, especially in unfamiliar or potentially risky environments.
• If someone in your group feels unwell or unusually intoxicated, take it seriously and assist them.

Trust your instincts:

• If something feels off or uncomfortable in a social situation, trust your gut feelings.
• If you feel unsafe or sense any danger, remove yourself from the situation as quickly as possible.

Stay in control:

• Avoid consuming excessive amounts of alcohol or drugs, as it can impair your judgment and make you more vulnerable.
• Know your limits and drink responsibly.
• Be cautious when accepting drinks from others, as they may contain date rape drugs.

Plan your transportation:

• Arrange your transportation in advance to ensure a safe journey home.
• Use reputable transportation services, such as licensed taxis, ride-sharing apps, or public transportation.
• Avoid accepting rides from strangers.

Communicate and inform others:

• Let someone you trust, such as a friend or family member, know about your plans, including where you are going and who you will be with.
• Check-in with a trusted person during the night to keep them informed about your well-being.

Utilize safety tools:

• Consider using personal safety apps on your phone that allow you to alert friends or authorities in case of an emergency.
• Some wearable devices offer personal safety features, such as panic buttons or location tracking, that can provide an added layer of security.

Report any incidents:

• If you suspect that you have been a victim of a date rape drug, seek immediate medical attention and report the incident to the authorities.
• Preserve any evidence by avoiding bathing, changing clothes, or discarding items that may contain traces of the drug.