I’ve heard the term "date rape" drugs or "Ruffies". What are they?
"Ruffies", a nickname for the drug Rohypnol, has been widely publicized as the drug used for sexual assault. The truth is that many different drugs can be added to a drink, causing incapacitation, memory loss, or altered judgment. The MOST common drug used for sexual assault continues to be alcohol.
Symptoms that might indicate being drugged include:
- sudden nausea, vomiting, dizziness or incapacitation in reaction to a drink (especially when only a moderate amount of alcohol or no alcohol was consumed)
- loss of memory (especially when only a moderate amount of alcohol or no alcohol was consumed)
- altered state of mind or unusual behavior (e.g.. suddenly aggressive, unusually flirtatious, or acting outside of normal behavior)
- Each drug has different symptoms
If you think that you or a friend may have been drugged, seek medical attention immediately
A toxicology screening can test for drugs in your system soon after being ingested. Toxicology screenings can be done for free along with a "rape kit". A "rape kit" is a free forensic exam for a person who has experienced sexual violence. You can contact University Health Services to have this exam or go to your local hospital emergency room.
Safety Tips
It’s never your fault if someone slips a drug into your drink. Here are some strategies to help you reduce your risk:
- Open your drink yourself, or watch it being opened.
- Never leave your drink unattended — no matter where you are.
- Don’t accept previously opened drinks, or sips of drinks, from others.
- Go to a bar or party with a friend or group of friends and make sure that you all leave together.
- If you start feeling strange or sick, tell a friend right away.
- If you drink alcohol, drink a small to moderate amount.
If you see a friend acting strangely or seeming "out of it", check in with them right away and offer help. Do not let them leave with someone else.
