Rape Drugs. Alcohol is the most commonly used drug that slows responses, impairs judgment, and can make it easier for a sexual assault to occur, but other substances have been connected with sexual assaults, including GHB, (G, liquid X), ketamine (K, ket, special K) and Rohypnol® (roofies).
These so-called "rape drugs" come in many forms (pills, powder or liquid), and are often tasteless, odourless and colourless, making them easy to hide and difficult to detect in a drink.
Survivors of unwanted drugging often feel confused or scared, and blame themselves for what has happened. It is never the survivor’s fault.
Staying safe
Everyone reacts differently to alcohol and drugs. The only way to stay completely safe is not to use illegal drugs at all. Some common effects of unwanted drugging include unexplained sleepiness, loss of co-ordination, confusion, dizziness, passing out or blackouts.
- Keep an eye on your drink.
- Get your own drinks from servers you trust.
- Be aware that alcohol impairs judgment and awareness.
- Stay with people you know and trust, especially if you plan on drinking alcohol.
- Watch out for each other.
- Plan ahead. Talk to your friends and figure out what you will do if you think someone has been drugged.
If you’ve been drugged...
- Get to a safe place. If you’re getting a ride, be sure it’s with someone you trust.
- Get the medical attention you need. Any hospital emergency room can help with the effects of the drugs. For drug testing, try to bring a sample of your drink.
If you’ve been assaulted...
- If you think you’ve been sexually assaulted, hospital staff can help with the effects of the assault, sexually transmitted infections, and possible pregnancy.
- Call a 24-hour sexual assault centre crisis line. It is anonymous and confidential.
- Volunteers will give emotional support and more information about medical options or reporting to the police.
AADAC Youth Services can be found in communities and schools across Alberta.
For more information, contact your local AADAC office or call the AADAC Help Line at 1-866-33AADAC. We are available to give you information and support.
Adapted with permission from the Designer Drug Harm Reduction Action Group, Hamilton, Ontario.
