Rohypnol Addiction is one of the fastest growing problems in Texas and the south Florida areas and is rapidly spreading across the United States. Reports also state that the largest and fastest growing groups of Rohypnol users are high school students who can often be found mixing it with alcohol or using it after ingesting cocaine. Two common misconceptions about Rohypnol are that it is unadulterated, and therefore safe, because it comes in pre-sealed bubble packs; the second is that is can not be detected in a urinalysis test. Both are false misconceptions but may explain why it is so popular among the high school students, not to mention that it is relatively inexpensive averaging $2-$4 on the street.

Rohypnol is illegal here in the United States and is generally manufactured and smuggled in from Mexico, South America, and Europe. It usually comes in a small, white, round tablet and is colorless, odorless, and tasteless when added to alcohol. Rohypnol has been used in many cases of “date rape.” It can usually be found easily at raves, night clubs, all night parties, and bars. Rohypnol is highly addictive and about ten times more potent than Valium.

Rohypnol use can produce a number of side effects some of which include Drowsiness, Fatigue, Gait problems, Dizziness, Lethargy, Lack of motor coordination, Slurred speech, Amnesia and forgetfulness, Confusion, Nausea, Vomiting, and Respiratory depression. Although Rohypnol falls under the category of depressants, it can also cause paradoxical reactions in some leading to excitability or aggressive behavior. Overdose of Rohypnol can be fatal causing coma, respiratory arrest, and death. In situations of overdose, please seek emergency help immediately.

With Rohypnol Addiction, an individual will develop physical and psychological dependence on the drug resulting in cravings. As large doses are consumed for a long time, the more pronounced the withdrawal symptoms will be once consumption of the drug has ended. It is important to remember that detox and withdrawal is not experienced the same by everyone and may vary in the number and strength of the symptoms. Some of the more noted signs and symptoms from withdrawal include Abdominal pains, Flu-like symptoms, Aching, Agoraphobia, Anxiety, Muscle spasms, Feeling of unreality, Changes in perception, Diarrhea, Flatulence, Food cravings, Sweating, Shaking, Suicidal thoughts, Distended abdomen, Sound and light sensitivity, Loss of balance, Metallic taste, Panic attacks, Unpleasant and persistent memories, Nightmares, Paranoia, Heavy limbs, and Heart palpitations. Detox and withdrawal can be a very long, painful process and should be done in the care of a licensed professional and never alone.

Rohypnol Addiction is a serious illness affecting not only the addict but also everyone around them. If you or someone you know suffers from Rohypnol Addiction, please get help from a certified drug addiction counselor or a residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility. The first step in treating any addiction is the user admitting that there is an addiction. Once they have done this, they can finally begin the long road to recovery. We are here to help you and your loved ones begin this process and get your lives back on track