Being “roofied” can happen quickly and often without warning. Many people do not realize what has happened until hours later, when confusion, memory gaps, or physical symptoms set in. Understanding the symptoms of being roofied can help you recognize danger sooner, protect yourself or others, and get medical help as quickly as possible.
This guide explains what it means to be roofied, the most common symptoms, how to tell the difference between being drugged and being drunk, and what to do if you think it has happened.
What Does It Mean to Be Roofied?
The term roofied refers to being drugged without consent, often for sexual assault or exploitation. It comes from the drug Rohypnol, sometimes called “roofies,” but it also includes other substances that can incapacitate a person when added to a drink.
These drugs are commonly called date rape drugs because they can:
- Act quickly
- Be hard to taste, smell, or see
- Cause confusion, blackouts, or loss of consciousness
- Make it difficult or impossible to give consent
Alcohol can intensify the effects, which is why many people mistake being roofied for extreme intoxication.
Common Date Rape Drugs
Several substances are commonly associated with drink spiking. Each affects the body differently, but all can be dangerous.
Rohypnol (Flunitrazepam)
Rohypnol is a benzodiazepine with strong sedative effects. When mixed with alcohol, it can cause:
- Profound drowsiness
- Memory loss
- Muscle relaxation
- Loss of consciousness
Some newer formulations may leave a bluish tint in light-colored drinks, but many versions remain difficult to detect. Effects usually begin within 30 minutes and can last several hours.
Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB)
GHB is a central nervous system depressant that may be found as a liquid or powder. It can cause:
- Confusion and disorientation
- Drowsiness
- Amnesia
- Slowed breathing at higher doses
It often has a salty taste that can be masked by flavored drinks. Effects may begin within 15 to 30 minutes.
Ketamine
Ketamine is a dissociative drug used medically as an anesthetic. When misused, it can cause:
- Detachment from reality
- Hallucinations
- Loss of coordination
- Memory gaps or unconsciousness
It has a bitter taste, but that can be hidden in mixed drinks. Effects may last from 30 minutes to over an hour.
Roofied Symptoms to Watch For
Roofied symptoms can vary based on the drug used, the amount, and whether alcohol or other substances were involved. Symptoms may appear suddenly and worsen quickly.
Immediate Symptoms
- Dizziness or light-headedness: Feeling unusually unsteady, disoriented, or unable to focus may be one of the earliest signs.
- Euphoria or sudden mood changes: Some people experience an intense sense of happiness, calm, or emotional numbness that feels out of character.
- Nausea or upset stomach: Feeling sick, queasy, or vomiting shortly after drinking can be a warning sign.
- Memory loss or confusion: Difficulty forming memories or recalling what just happened is common with date rape drugs.
- Loss of coordination: Slurred speech, stumbling, slowed movements, or difficulty standing can occur even after little alcohol.
Progressive Symptoms
- Blackouts: Many people cannot remember large portions of time while the drug is active.
- Lowered inhibitions: A person may appear awake and responsive but be unable to make informed decisions or protect themselves.
- Visual disturbances: Blurred vision, tunnel vision, or double vision may develop.
- Paranoia or confusion: A sense that something is wrong, paired with fear or disorientation, is common.
- Unconsciousness: Passing out or becoming completely unresponsive can occur, especially when alcohol is involved.
Roofied Symptoms the Next Day
Some effects don’t fully resolve after waking up.
- Memory gaps: You may remember events that happened before being drugged, but not what followed.
- Ongoing confusion or brain fog: Difficulty concentrating or feeling mentally slowed can linger.
- Physical discomfort: Headaches, muscle soreness, nausea, light sensitivity, or fatigue may resemble a severe hangover.
- Signs of injury or assault: Soreness, bruising, or signs of sexual activity without memory can be deeply distressing.
- Emotional distress: Anxiety, fear, shame, or a sense that something is wrong may occur even without clear memories.
Roofied vs. Drunk: How to Tell the Difference
Alcohol is frequently involved in drug-facilitated sexual assault and can intensify the effects of other substances, making it harder to tell whether someone has been drugged or is simply intoxicated. It can be hard to tell whether someone is roofied or simply intoxicated, but there are important differences. Being roofied often involves:
- Extreme impairment after very little alcohol
- Sudden onset of symptoms
- Confusion that feels disproportionate to drinking
- Memory loss that begins abruptly
- Rapid progression to blackouts or unconsciousness
If symptoms feel unusual, intense, or out of proportion, trust your instincts and seek help.
Recognizing If Someone Else Has Been Roofied
If you notice any of these signs, stay with the person and get help immediately:
- Sudden and uncharacteristic behavior changes
- Trouble standing or walking after minimal drinking
- Slurred or slowed speech
- Appearing “out of it,” confused, or unresponsive
- Passing out unexpectedly
How to Help Prevent Being Roofied
While responsibility always lies with the perpetrator, awareness and safe practices can reduce your risk. It doesn’t hurt to be cautious.
- Never accept drinks from strangers
- Watch drinks being poured
- Keep your drink with you at all times
- Go out with trusted friends and check in with each other
- Stop drinking a beverage if it tastes or looks unusual
- Trust your instincts if something feels off
What to Do If You Think You’ve Been Roofied
If you believe you or someone else has been roofied, act quickly.
Get to a Safe Place
Stay where others can see you and avoid leaving alone.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Do not try to “sleep it off.”
Avoid Showering or Changing Clothes
If there is any chance of assault, preserving evidence is important.
Report the Incident
When you feel able, file a police report so the incident can be investigated.
Seek Emotional Support
Reach out to trusted people or professional support services. What happened is not your fault.
Help and Support Are Available
If you or someone you know has been roofied, support is available.
National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN):
Call (800) 656-HOPE for confidential support and local resources.
Recovery and Healing After Being Roofied
Experiencing drugging or assault can be deeply traumatic. Healing may involve medical care, individual or group counseling, and long-term emotional support.
Live Free Recovery Services in Keene and Manchester, New Hampshire, offers compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals struggling with trauma, substance use, and co-occurring mental health concerns.
If you or a loved one needs support, call us at 888-527-1508 or verify insurance to learn about available treatment options. You deserve safety, support, and a path forward.
