Rohypnol

Date Rape Drugs

Rohypnol, (generically Flunitrazepam), is a sedative with approximately ten-times the potency of Valium (diazepam). The tablets are round, white, slightly smaller than aspirin and are single- or cross-scored on one side with "ROCHE" and "1" or "2" encircled on the other.

Rohypnol is manufactured worldwide, particularly in Europe and Latin America, in 1- and 2-milligram tablets by Hoffman-LaRoche, Inc., a large pharmaceutical manufacturer. However, the drug neither is manufactured nor approved for medical use in the United States. The drug is often distributed on the street in its original "bubble packaging" and is usually sold for less than $5 per tablet.

Street Names

Roofies, Rib, Roach-2, Roopies, Rope, R-2, Circles, La Roche, Mexican Valium

Effects

The drug produces drowsiness, dizziness, slurred speech, amnesia, muscle relaxation, loss of motor control, lack of coordination, and gastrointestinal disturbances lasting 12 or more hours. Higher doses reduce heart rate and breathing. The use of this drug with alcohol is particularly dangerous as both substances increase each other's toxicity.