It is erroneously thought by some to be an aphrodisiac, it is not, it is a hypnotic. It can cause decreased blood pressure, memory impairment, drowsiness, visual disturbance, dizziness, confusion, slurred speech, motor incoordination, gastrointestinal disturbances, and urinary retention. Resulting memory loss can last for up to 24 hours. When mixed with alcohol or other drugs, Rohypnol may lead to respiratory depression, aspiration, and even death. When used repeatedly, it can lead to physical and psychic dependence.
Many individuals abuse Rohypnol for recreational purposes, sometimes mixing it with other drugs.
Rohypnol is colorless, tasteless, and odorless, making it easy to slip into drinks, hence the heinous use of this drug in rape instances. In the common date rape scenario, Rohypnol is slipped into the victim's alcoholic drink with the aim of producing disinhibition and amnesia, rendering them helpless. Often, victimized individuals have no remembrance of the episode, making prosecution difficult. Rohypnol can be detected in blood up to four hours after ingestion and in urine for up to 48 hours. For this reason, individuals who suspect they may been exposed to Rohypnol or assaulted while under the influence of this drug are advised to seek medical assistance to provide a urine sample for testing as soon as possible.