Slang or Street Names: Roofies, Rophies, Roche, Forget-me Pill
Rohypnol (flunitrazepam) belongs to the class of drugs known as benzodiazepines (which include Valium, Halcion, Xanax, and Versed). It is not approved for prescription use in the United States, although it is used in many countries as a treatment for insomnia, as a sedative, and as a presurgery anesthetic.
- Rohypnol is tasteless and odorless, and it dissolves easily in carbonated beverages. The sedative and toxic effects of Rohypnol are aggravated by concurrent use of alcohol. Even without alcohol, a dose of Rohypnol as small as 1 mg can impair a user for 8 to 12 hours.
- Rohypnol is usually taken orally, although there are reports that it can be ground up and snorted.
- The drug can cause profound "anterograde amnesia;" that is, individuals may not remember events they experienced while under the effects of the drug. Reportedly, it has been used in sexual assaults.
- Other adverse effects associated with Rohypnol include decreased blood pressure, drowsiness, visual disturbances, dizziness, confusion, gastrointestinal disturbances, and urinary retention.
*CEWG areas in which Rohypnol abuse has been reported include: Miami, Houston, and sites along the Texas-Mexico border.