Sex

What Date Rape Drugs Do

Currently the pills are colourless, odourless and dissolve in drinks rapidly. The effects - which are felt within 30 minutes - are impaired motor skills, muscle relaxation, dizziness, loss of vision in some cases and impaired judgement, dehydration plus amnesia. Effects can last between eight and 24 hours.

The company who manufacture the drugs (which are intended for insomnia or as a pre-anaesthetic in surgery) are now developing a new tablet which will change colour when it comes in contact with liquid, and so be visible.

If you're worried:

• Don't accept drinks from people you don't know
• If passed a bottle or can, make sure it's unopened
• Otherwise, watch your drink being poured and don't leave it unattended