GHB induces a state of relaxation which can be felt within five to twenty minutes after it is ingested. This state feels similar to being drunk, but at the same time, clear headed with no subsequent hangover. The "high" lasts about one and a half to three hours. GHB is odourless and tasteless. Due to this fact, it is very difficult to detect when slipped into a drink. It is very important for people to be aware of how to reduce their risk of being drugged with GHB so that they can maximize their chances of avoiding date rape. Rohypnol (flunitrazepam) is a sedative which is prescribed for the treatment of anxiety and insomnia. Like GHB, it is illegal in Canada but smuggled into the country where it is distributed in the form of tablets and sold for about four to five dollars per tablet. Each tablet is white in colour and individually bubble-wrapped with the name Roche and the number one or two engraved on its surface indicating its dosage in milligrams. It is used to decrease inhibition and is usually mixed into fruit drinks or alcoholic beverages. It is also similar to GHB in the fact that it has no odour or taste. Frequently, it is sold at raves and night clubs. Rohypnol's effects begin within three minutes after ingestion, peak within two hours and persist for up to eight hours. It induces a reduction in anxiety and muscular relaxation. When served to women, Rohypnol produces sedation and reduces the will to resist sexual advances. About ten minutes after ingestion, the woman may feel dizzy and disoriented, simultaneously too hot and too cold, and nauseated. She may experience difficulty moving and speaking, and she will eventually pass out. After waking up, she will have no recollection of what happened to her while under the drug's influence. Rohypnol is the most common date rape drug. As I have demonstrated above, GHB and Rohypnol are very dangerous date rape drugs and everyone should be aware of their effects.
