Rohypnol, a name that sparks concern, is a drug with powerful sedative effects. While it has legitimate medical uses in some countries, its notoriety stems from its misuse and the dangers it poses. Understanding Rohypnol’s effects, risks, and how to respond to its misuse can help safeguard individuals and communities from its potential harm. Flunitrazepam, sold under the brand name Rohypnol among others, [3] is a benzodiazepine used to treat severe insomnia and assist with anesthesia. [4] As with other hypnotics, flunitrazepam has been advised to be prescribed only for short-term use or by those with chronic insomnia on an occasional basis. [4] Flunitrazepam was patented in 1962 and came into medical use in 1974. [5] Nicknamed. Rohypnol Rohypnol (Flunitrazepam) is a benzodiazepine with properties similar to diazepam (Valium). Like all benzodiazepines, Rohypnol is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant and produces sedative effects by inhibiting the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter in the brain. GABA is an inhibitory chemical that reduces nerve activity in the CNS, creating side effects such as. Rohypnol Facts Rohypnol is a central nervous system depressant that impairs mental functioning and can cause amnesia, confusion and impaired judgment. It has been used as a date rape drug and is frequently used with other substances such as alcohol, cocaine and heroin. Rohypnol is extremely addictive, and signs of addiction include using larger amounts than intended, persistent failure to cut. Flunitrazepam is a benzodiazepine drug known for its sedative, hypnotic, and anxiolytic (antianxiety) properties and for its illicit use, most notably as a so-called date rape drug. Date-rape drugs are substances that make it easier for someone to rape or sexually assault another person. Learn about the common types, descriptions, & effects of date rape drugs. Rohypnol, a trade name for the drug flunitrazepam, is a central nervous system depressant. The drug is legally manufactured and available outside the United States but is neither manufactured nor approved for sale within the United States. Since the 1990s individuals in the United States have used Rohypnol illegally, often as a means of mitigating the depression that results from using. Rohypnol® is a trade name for flunitrazepam, a CNS depressant that belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines. Flunitrazepam is also marketed as generic preparations and other trade name products outside of the United States. Like other benzodiazepines, Rohypnol® produces sedative-hypnotic, anti-anxiety, and muscle relaxant effects. Rohypnol (flunitrazepam) is used in the short-term treatment of insomnia and as a premedication for surgery. Rohypnol is also known as the date rape drug due to its amnesia properties when used illicitly. Victims given the drug would have limited or no recollection of a sexual assault. Before 1997, Rohypnol was a small, white tablet that looked like aspirin. The tablet was colorless, odorless, and tasteless when dissolved in beverages. 4 The manufacturer changed its appearance after roofies became a date rape drug. Now, it's an olive green, oblong tablet with a blue center that adds color to a beverage.