Rohypnol, the trade name for flunitrazepam, has been a concern for the last few years because of its abuse as a "date rape" drug. In reference to date rape, this drug is most commonly referred to as a "roofie." People may unknowingly be given the drug that, when mixed with alcohol, can incapacitate victims and prevent them from resisting sexual assault. Also, Rohypnol can be lethal when mixed with alcohol and/or other depressants.The drug is manufactured and available outside of the United States. In 1997 the manufacture decided to reformulate the caplet which was a 2 milligram white tablet into a new smaller dose 0.5mg-1.0mg caplet that are dull green with a blue core. These tablets when dissolved in clear or light colored liquid will turn the drink blue so that it can be detected by the victim. Generic versions of the drug do not come in the blue pill caplet form and is harder to detect. Since the 1990's the drug has been illegally used in the US as a way of mitigating depression that results from the use of stimulants such as cocaine and methamphetamine. The drug is most commonly used in night clubs at raves and on high school and college campuses. The principle users of the drug are usually males aged 13-30. Rohypnol is classified as a depressant but can induce aggression or excitability.
Risks
Decreased blood pressure / Drowsiness / Visual disturbances / Dizziness / Confusion / Stomach, intestine, and urinary problems / Physical dependence and addiction / Death, especially when mixed with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants