Rohypnol is the brand name for a drug called flunitrazepam, which is a powerful sedative that depresses the central nervous system. Rohypnol is not legally available for prescription in the United States, but is legal in many countries worldwide for treatment of insomnia. It is a small white tablet that can be swallowed as a pill, dissolved in a drink, or snorted.
Also known as forget-me-pill, Mexican Valium and ruffies, among other slang terms, rohypnol is a “club drug,” which tends to be abused by teens and young adults at bars, nightclubs, concerts, and parties. It is frequently used in combination with alcohol and other drugs, and sometimes taken to enhance a heroin high, or to mellow or ease the experience of coming down from a cocaine or crack high. Used with alcohol, roofies produce disinhibition and amnesia.[2]
Rohypnol is also considered to be a “date rape” drug because it has been used to commit sexual assaults due to its ability to sedate and incapacitate unsuspecting victims, preventing them from resisting sexual assault.[1]
Effects may include blackouts, with a complete loss of memory, dizziness, respiratory depression (slowed breathing), disorientation, nausea, difficulty with motor movements and speaking. Rohypnol can produce physical and psychological dependence. Rohypnol is considered a “date rape” drug.[1]
Signs of use include dizziness, slowed breathing, disorientation, nausea and difficulty with motor movements and speaking. If you’re concerned your child may be using rohypnol or other substances, the following can help you address the behavior more effectively.
Last Updated
October 2023
[1]“Get Smart About Drugs.” Find Help | Get Smart About Drugs, https://www.getsmartaboutdrugs.gov/drugs/rohypnol.
[2]“Rohypnol.” DEA, https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/rohypnol
Additional Sources:
Club Drugs (GHB, Ketmaine, and Rohypnol). National Institute on Drug Abuse, Dec. 2014, www.drugabuse.gov/sites/default/files/drugfacts_clubdrugs_12_2014.pdf.