Rohypnol is the brand name for the generic drug flunitrazepam. Rohypnol is a benzodiazepine that works to depress the brain’s central nervous system.
Rohypnol is also known under the names:
- Roofies
- La roche
- Rib
- R2
- Roofenol
- Rope
This drug is illegal in the United States and has even been banned from medical settings. Rohypnol is a very powerful and dangerous drug. Its most known side effect is anterograde amnesia: memory loss that occurs when the drug is in the user’s system.
The drug’s effects also include the following:
In addition to these dangerous, potentially life-threatening side effects, Rohypnol use can also cause dependence, addiction and fatal drug overdose.
Rohypnol Use in the United States
Rohypnol is banned in the United States. The Food and Drug Administration does not approve the drug, and its use is illegal. Pharmacists cannot sell the drug, doctors cannot prescribe it, and retailers cannot sell it. However, this does not mean that Rohypnol use doesn’t exist within U.S. borders.
While it was originally designed for medical purposes, Rohypnol has become a popular choice for recreational drug users in the U.S. This type of drug is popular in the night-life scene and is an accessory for those going to raves, night clubs, and overnight parties. Rohypnol is even being used in conjunction with other drugs and alcohol to increase the intended effects.
Tragically, Rohypnol is also used to take advantage of and assault other people. “Roofies” are known as the “date rape drug” because this substance has been used so often to subdue and commit crimes and assaults against unsuspecting victims.
In addition to the many health risks and dangers of Rohypnol abuse, drug regulators want to keep Rohypnol off the streets because of its high involvement with sex-related crimes. The drug causes amnesia effects, so victims often have a difficult time recalling, or even remembering, details of the assault, including the assailant. Fortunately, advances in lab technology mean that detecting this drug and prosecuting those who use it to commit crimes has become easier.
Rohypnol Use Around the Globe
While Rohypnol is not legally available in the U.S., there are over 50 countries around the globe that do authorize its production, distribution, and use. The drug is most prominent in European countries, Columbia, and Mexico. Other countries prescribe Rohypnol to aid sleep problems and for general anesthesia. Rohypnol is also used to treat withdrawal symptoms of other drugs like crack or cocaine.
Because other countries have access to Rohypnol, many drug traffickers have found it extremely profitable to smuggle the drug across U.S. borders. Coastal states like Florida and Texas have high Rohypnol abuse rates because there are many ports of distribution available in these areas.
Rohypnol is used for recreational purposes in other countries as well. The drug is widely popular and easy to obtain. Some South American countries even have the drug available over-the-counter. Since the drug is inexpensive and easy to obtain, recreational drug users in other countries abuse the drug in the same way as Americans.
Treatment Help for Rohypnol Misuse
Whether the drug is legally obtained or not, Rohypnol abuse is a volatile and destructive activity. Long-term use can cause physical dependence and addiction. If you or a loved one is ready to stop abusing Rohypnol, we can help.
Please call our toll-free helpline today to speak with an experienced recovery professional. Our support staff is available 24 hours a day to assist you with all your questions and needs when it comes to finding Rohypnol treatment and recovery care. Don’t spend one more day risking your entire future on drug abuse. Call 760.548.4032 for help now.
