Rohypnol, the trade name for flunitrazepam, has been a concern
for the last few years because of its abuse as a "date
rape" drug. People may unknowingly be given the drug which,
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.Rohypnol produces sedative-hypnotic effects including muscle
relaxation and amnesia; it can also produce dependence. Rohypnol
is not approved for use in the United States and its importation
is banned. Illicit use of Rohypnol began in Europe in the 1970s
and started appearing in the United States in the early 1990s,
where it became known as "rophies," "roofies," "roach," "rope," and the "date rape" drug.Another very similar drug is clonazepam, marketed in the
U.S. as Klonopin and in Mexico as Rivotril. It is sometimes
abused to enhance the effects of heroin and other opiates.Source: U.S. Department
of Health and Human Services Department of Health and Human
Services. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2002, September 24).
NIDA Info Facts: Rohypnol and GHBWashington, DC: U.S. Government
Printing Office.