What is Rohypnol?

Rohypnol is not legally available in the United States, even for medical purposes, but is an approved medicine in most other parts of the world.  Rohypnol is most commonly used for the short-term treatment of sleep disorders.  Rohypnol is a tranquilizer much like Valium, yet it is ten times stronger.  Rohypnol produces sedative effects, including amnesia, muscle relaxation, and the slowing of psychomotor performance.  Sedation occurs 20 to 30 minutes after administration of a 2-milligram tablet and lasts approximately 8 hours.

 

Rohypnol first appeared in the United States in the early 1990’s.  Today, the use of Rohypnol is one of the fastest growing drug problems in Texas and Florida, and is spreading to the rest of the United States.  The inexpensive cost, ranging from $2 to $3 per pill, attracts young users.

 

The use of Rohypnol itself is dangerous, leading to physical and psychological dependence, which increases with dose and duration of use.  However, there are other dangers linked to this substance.  Rohypnol is typically sold in its original bubble packing, conveying a sense of legality and security in its use.  The perceived safety of the drug, along with the trend of use in combination with other substances, creates the possibility of Rohypnol becoming a gateway to harder drugs.  An equally serious danger is the reported use of Rohypnol as a date rape drug of choice.

 

Lethal overdose is unlikely, however, continued use will result in physical dependence.  Withdrawal symptoms range from headache, muscle pain and confusion to hallucinations and convulsions.

 

If you would like more information about Rohypnol, contact the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment at 800-662-4357, or visit them online at csat.samhsa.gov.

 

Phone code: 1783

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