Hall, Jim and Jane C. Maxwell. Community Drug Epidemiology Work Group Memorandum. May 2, 1995. Discusses historical and emerging patterns of illicit Rohypnol use, originating in Europe during the 1970s but spreading to the United States during the 1990s. Producing sedative effects, including amnesia, muscle relaxation, and the slowing of psychomotor performance, a 2 mg tablet induces sedation 20 to 30 minutes after administration which lasts approximately 8 hours.
Chronic use leads to the development of tolerance and to both physical and psychological addiction.
Miller, Norman S. and Mark S. Gold. Benzodiazepine abuse and addiction is more common than generally believed, according to a review focusing on high rates of poly-drug use involving the drugs. Authors also argue that benzodiazepines may not be as safe as generally assumed and that the drugs may play a major role in promoting suicidal thoughts and behavior. Wells, Kenneth B., et al. American Journal Of Psychiatry .