Drink spiking occurs when a drug is covertly placed in a person's drink in order to sedate or incapacitate them. Young women are common targets of drink spiking and the harms resulting include sexual assault, robbery and unsafe sex.
Alcohol is the most frequently used drug in drink spiking incidents. However, a variety of other substances have also been identified including;
- Benzodiazepines (tranquilliser’s/sleeping pills)
- Gamma Hydroxy Butyrate (GHB)
- Rohypnol
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Amphetamines
- Opiates
Many of these drugs are quickly absorbed after oral administration, resulting in rapid onset of the effects. These include:
- Nausea, dizziness, feeling unwell
- Lowering of inhibitions
- Loss of consciousness
- Loss of memory
The physical signs to look for in people include:
- Appearing intoxicated after only a small amount of alcohol (loss of inhibitions, poor coordination, drowsiness, confusion or unconsciousness)
- Appearing uncomfortable in the presence of the person with them
The preceding list of signs can be attributed to someone who has been consuming excessive amounts of alcohol. However, if a drug has been added it will happen more quickly. This is further complicated by not knowing how much alcohol the affected person has consumed earlier.
If you or a friend suspects a drink has been spiked you are encouraged to report it to the Police. Reporting the incident within 24-hours enables a urine sample to be analysed. A positive test confirms the drink spiking and provides good evidence for prosecution. Police will be interested in all the circumstances surrounding the drink spiking such as last drink and descriptions of persons-of-interest.
Take care of the affected person. If they are experiencing bad effects, call an ambulance immediately. Don’t delay, you could save their life. If the person becomes unconscious and you know first aid, place them on their side in the recovery position and make sure their airway is clear. If they stop breathing, commence Expired Air Respiration (EAR). If a sexual assault is suspected contact the Sexual Assault Resource Centre
Try to avoid drink spiking happening to you:
- Always buy your own drink and watch it being poured
- Don't accept drinks from strangers
- Never leave your drink unattended while you dance or go to the toilet
- Don't drink or taste anyone else's drink
- Dispose of your drink if you think it tastes odd
For further information on drink spiking obtain a copy of our Drink Spiking – wallet card