Rohypnol drug treatment
The drugs can affect everyone quickly. The length of time that the effects last varies. It depends on how much of the drug is taken and if the drug is mixed with other substances, like alcohol. These are drugs that are sometimes used to assist a sexual assault. Because of the effects of these drugs, victims may be physically helpless, unable to refuse sex and can't remember what happened. The drugs often have no color, smell or taste and are easily added to flavored drinks without the victim's knowledge. Among so called “rape drugs” there is Rohypnol (flunitrazepam), a benzodiazepine (central nervous system depressant) like Valium, yet 10 times more potent, usually available by prescription for the short-term treatment of severe sleep disorders.
Rohypnol comes in pill form and is usually sold in the manufacturer's bubble packaging. Since February 1999 their colour changed from white to blue when putted in water. The 1-milligram dose of Rohypnol comes in an olive green, oblong tablet, imprinted with the number 542. Rohypnol can be ingested orally, snorted or injected. It has also been used in combination with other drugs to enhance the effects of low grade heroin, to mellow the buzz from crack and heroin and to soften comedowns. The effects of Rohypnol begin within 15 to 20 minutes of administration and, depending on the amount ingested, may persist for more than 12 hours. The drug's metabolic properties are detectable in urine for up to 72 hours after ingestion.
Under Rohypnol, individuals may experience a slowing of psychomotor performance, muscle relaxation, decreased blood pressure, sleepiness, and/or amnesia. Some of the adverse side effects associated with the drug's use are drowsiness, headaches, memory impairment, dizziness, nightmares, confusion and tremors. Continued, repeated use of Rohypnol may result in addiction and although Rohypnol is a sedative, it can cause aggressive behavior in some people. Withdrawal symptoms may occur and include headaches, sore muscles, hallucinations, convulsions and possibly seizures 1-2 weeks after quitting the drug.
Rohypnol is a highly addictive prescription drug. Used on its own, it is unlikely to be fatal, but when combined with other drugs such as alcohol and cannabis the risk increases greatly. As the drug suppresses the central nervous and respiratory systems, there's a big chance for the breathing to stop. In terms of recovery and rehabilitation, Rohypnol drug treatment may require a special program ranging from certified addiction counseling to treatment at a residential alcohol and drug rehab center, depending on the extent of the addiction.
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