Recently, there have been a number of reports of sexual assault, particularly in the United States, in which drugs or other substances have been slipped into people's drinks. The number of sexual assaults in which drugs are used seems to be on the increase. Everyone needs to be aware of the general threat of substance misuse, and what to do if you think that you, or someone you know, has been drugged.
Sexual assault is a concern for both men and women, and a risk for people of all ages.
This brochure is intended to provide you with more information on the kinds of drugs being used, and how to protect yourself against sexual assault involving drugs. Recent laboratory tests on the urine of survivors of substance-related sexual assault in the US showed traces of an even greater number of substances, including alcohol, amphetamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, cocaine, GHB, marijuana and opiates. These drugs may come in any form, including powder, pill, tablet and liquid. Sedating drugs, when criminally misused, often are referred to by a number of street names, of which you should be aware. These include Liquid Ecstasy, Liquid X, Grievous Bodily Harm, Easy Lay for GHB, and Special K for ketamine.